Our reporter
A violent cult clash in Iruekpen, Esan West Local Government Area of Edo State, has left scores injured and stirred a political storm after allegations surfaced implicating a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Marcus Onobun.
Uptown Press gathered that the violence, believed to be the result of a conflict between rival cult groups, erupted over the weekend, triggering widespread fear and tension in the community. The incident has since been linked by some residents to activities allegedly taking place at the residence of Hon. Onobun, a former Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly.
According to multiple accounts, members of the proscribed Eiye confraternity were allegedly sighted meeting at the lawmaker’s home in Iruekpen prior to the outbreak of violence. Eyewitnesses and concerned residents accused Hon. Onobun of hosting secret gatherings that may have contributed to the cult resurgence in the area.
Community leaders have now called for urgent government intervention, demanding a full investigation by the Edo State Government and the Nigerian Police Force.
“No individual, regardless of political office or influence, should be allowed to promote violence or compromise the safety of our community. Hon. Marcus Onobun must be held accountable under the law,” one resident, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told reporters.
Another local leader added, “The fight against cultism in Edo State must be impartial. The same laws that apply to the average citizen must also apply to public office holders. If Hon. Onobun has breached the law, he must face the consequences.”
In a swift response, Hon. Onobun categorically denied any involvement in the incident, describing the allegations as “baseless” and “politically motivated.”
“I just contacted the person in charge of my Iruekpen home, and I was told there was no such gathering or incident involving my residence,” he said. “What I heard was that the incident occurred at an ‘ashawo joint’ and involved two boys fighting over a land issue. I’ve been informed that they have already been arrested.”
He further clarified, “The last time I was in Iruekpen was April 22, 2025. To associate me or my house with this incident is pure mischief. Those spreading this narrative should focus on governance and address this barbaric act rather than politicise it—especially since the clash didn’t even occur near my house.”
Despite the denial, the community remains on edge, with many calling for a more robust security presence and a thorough investigation to determine the true cause of the violence.
The Edo State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement regarding the incident.
