By Praise Chinecherem
No fewer than ten persons were on Sunday feared killed in a cult-related clash between two rival groups in Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State.
The incident was said to have occurred during Nibo Onwa Asaa festival.
A resident of the area said, “There are reports of violence in Anambra State today, specifically at the Nibo Onwa Asaa festival, with multiple casualties.
“Unfortunately, I couldn’t verify the exact number of deaths, but it’s been a bloody Sunday indeed.
Another source said, “Gunshots were reportedly heard everywhere, causing panic and chaos.
“In a separate incident, three persons are feared dead after gunmen opened fire at Nodu Village, Okpuno, Awka South local government area of Anambra State.
“A relation in Nibo just confirmed about 10 gunned down in a restaurant near their gate and moved to Eke Nibo then about 6 down. Akwa na- daa na Ramah ó kwa umu anyi oo.
Reacting, Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga said Commissioner of Police, Nnaghe Obono Itam has ordered immediate deployment of additional operatives to the area for necessary action.
He said, “The Command is aware of a suspected cult-related clash today 20/10/2024 in Nibo, Awka South LG and the Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam have ordered immediate deployment of additional operatives to the area for necessary action.
“Preliminary reports of the incidents are still sketchy as the Command calls on the witnesses of this incident to volunteer information that will help to identify the perpetrators for possible arrest.
“Be assured that information sent in this regard shall be treated with utmost confidentiality. You can call the Command Control Room at 07039194332 or the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) at 08039334002“