A brutal outbreak of cult-related violence left at least six people dead on Thursday near Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) in Awka, Anambra State.
The attack occurred in the Ifite Amansea Road area, close to the university’s main gate, as suspected members of a rival cult group unleashed a barrage of gunfire in broad daylight.
Eyewitnesses described the scene as chaotic and horrifying, with many residents and students caught in the crossfire. A student from UNIZIK recounted the terror: “I was heading to class when the shots started.
Over six people were killed near Witness Garden. The gunmen showed up around 9:30 a.m. and began shooting at anyone they suspected of being part of a rival cult.”
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A UNIZIK lecturer, who was near the scene, described it as a “war zone.” He added, “I saw seven people lying dead on the ground. It was horrifying. I immediately turned around and went home.”
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the incident. According to police spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga, “The Police response team quickly secured the scene behind the UNIZIK gate after reports of gunmen shooting indiscriminately.”
Ikenga added that four victims were confirmed dead on the spot, while two others later succumbed to their injuries. The police have recovered empty bullet shells from the site and are currently conducting operations to track down the attackers.
Although the motive behind the attack remains unclear, authorities suspect the violence stems from an ongoing cult rivalry.
Anambra has seen a resurgence of cult-related violence in recent years, heightening fears for the safety of residents and students in the area. Police have assured the public that they are working to prevent further violence and apprehend the perpetrators.
As the investigation unfolds, the brutal nature of the attack has sparked calls for enhanced security around UNIZIK and surrounding areas, where cult clashes have become an escalating concern.