Edo: Suspected Eiye Cultist Shot Dead, Police Make Arrests

Fresh tension has gripped Auchi in Etsako West Local Government Area of Edo State following the killing of a suspected Eiye cult member, identified as Francis, popularly known as “Jogodo,” at Jattu Junction.

Jogodo was reportedly shot dead on Monday by unidentified gunmen who arrived in a black Lexus RX 350 and opened fire on him. Another man, identified simply as Otis, was also attacked in a separate incident but survived.

Sources at a motor park where the deceased worked disclosed that the killing may not be unconnected to a violent clash between members of the Eiye (ACN) and Jurist (PLIJ) cult groups that occurred at the same location about two weeks ago.

According to the sources, the earlier confrontation left a suspected Jurist member with severe injuries after he was allegedly attacked by Eiye members. The incident reportedly created widespread fear in the area, forcing many suspected cult members to stay away from the park for nearly two weeks.

Further details obtained by this online newspaper revealed that activities had only recently resumed at the park before the fatal attack on Jogodo.

According to Naija Confra, following his death, accusations and counter-accusations emerged among rival cult groups. Some Eiye members reportedly blamed the Aye (NBM) confraternity, claiming the group had previously threatened reprisals after a change in leadership within its Auchi chapter. Several voice notes circulating on social media allegedly linked the killing to the Aye group, although there was no independent confirmation of the identity of the attackers.

The situation became more complicated later in the day when Otis, said to be an Aye member, was attacked by unknown assailants. While he survived, members of the Aye group reportedly pointed fingers at Eiye members for the attack.

As of the time of filing this report, the Edo State Police Command had reportedly made several arrests in connection with the killing of Jogodo, while efforts continue to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attacks and prevent further violence in the area.