Renewed Cult Clashes Claim Nine Lives in Edo State, Residents Fear Escalation

Our reporter

Edo State has been gripped by resurgence in cult-related violence, resulting in the death of nine individuals in the last 48 hours. This wave of brutality has left communities, particularly Okabere in Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area, on edge.

 

Eyewitnesses reported that two residents of Okabere were beheaded by unknown assailants, with disturbing footage circulating, sparking concerns that the violence may continue to escalate.

 

In a separate incident, a middle-aged man identified only as Austine and an unnamed barber were killed in Upper Sokponba early Monday morning.

According to witnesses, the barber was fatally shot when he resisted a group of suspected cultists who attempted to steal mobile phones belonging to his clients. His partner narrowly escaped but sustained gunshot wounds.

 

The violence didn’t stop there. Over the weekend, a clash linked to a motor park leadership dispute erupted in the Ogbe area, leading to a deadly confrontation.

A young man caught in the gunfire was injured, while a female trader at Oba Market was reportedly killed by a stray bullet during the altercation.

 

The killings have intensified fears and unrest in Benin City, with residents of Oka Market, Jesus Christ Road, and Okabere quarters particularly on edge. While residents anxiously await action, the state government has yet to release an official statement, and law enforcement agencies have refrained from confirming the reported casualty figures.