Adebayo Adenrele
Three brothers from the same mother have fallen victim to the relentless violence that ensued among cult members in Akwa, state capital of Akwa Ibom state.
Nonso, was killed in broad daylight near Amaku Teaching Hospital.
According to a close family source, Nonso’s killing is linked to the murder of his younger brother, Buchi, three months ago around Mac Don Eatery.
Their eldest brother had also met a brutal end in a previous attack. The tragic loss leaves their mother without a child.
This incident brings the death toll from cult-related violence in Awka to no fewer than 20 persons in the past week.
The ongoing conflict has revived painful memories of the Nibo Massacre and Ifite killings, which left deep scars on the community.
Cult killings have plagued Anambra State for years, with Awka being a hotspot.
Rival cult groups, including the Neo-Black Movement (Black Axe) and the Vikings, have been engaged in a deadly turf war.
The violence has claimed numerous lives, leaving families shattered and the community traumatized.
The Nibo Massacre, which occurred a week ago , saw several lives lost, while the Ifite killings left residents fleeing.
Despite repeated assurances from law enforcement agencies, the bloodshed persists.
Anambra State Police Commissioner, Nnaghe Obono Itam, has condemned the latest killing, promising a thorough investigation.
“We will leave no stone unturned in apprehending the perpetrators and bringing them to justice,” he said.
State Governor, Charles Soludo, has also weighed in, urging calm and reassuring citizens of increased security measures.
“We will do everything possible to restore peace and security in Awka,” Soludo stated.
As the cult war intensifies, concerns mount about the effectiveness of law enforcement and the role of community leaders in addressing the crisis.
Residents are calling for urgent action to stem the violence and restore peace to Awka.
The Ezinano Awka Community, led by Ozo Jeff Nweke, on Friday, placed a N10 million bounty on Nibo Massacre perpetrators and warned cultists to steer clear of Awka and its environs.
Community leaders are urged to collaborate with security agencies to identify and report suspicious activities, while residents are advised to remain vigilant and report any information regarding cult activities to the authorities.
A mourning mother, bereaved of three sons to cult violence, is comforted by relatives in Awka.
The family’s plight has sparked widespread outrage and calls for an end to the senseless killings.