From Staff Writer
Two people have been reportedly killed and several others critically injured in a violent clash between rival cult groups in Iwuru Obio Ntan, Biase Local Government Area of Cross River State.
The confrontation, which involved members of the Vikings and Aye confraternities, is said to have escalated following a dispute between an Aye member and a Vikings member originally from Akwa Ibom but resident in the community.
According to sources, the altercation took a deadly turn when a member of the Aye group, identified simply as Onwu, was macheted to death by a Vikings member known as Solo during the clash. In a retaliatory attack, suspected Aye cultists reportedly stormed the home of the Akwa Ibom Vikings member after failing to find Solo and allegedly killed his wife.
Naija Confra reports that, two former leaders of the Vikings group, known by their aliases Evra and MTN, were also seriously wounded during the violence and are said to be receiving treatment at an undisclosed medical facility. Numerous others from both sides were also injured and hospitalised.
The cult war, reportedly triggered by a personal disagreement, quickly spiralled into a broader turf conflict. A local source familiar with the situation explained that the fight began when Onwu’s brother had a confrontation with a member of the Vikings from Akwa Ibom. Both men called in reinforcements from their respective groups, setting off the chain of violent events.
Following the killings, Solo and other implicated Vikings members are said to have fled the community, prompting fears of further reprisals and insecurity.
As of press time, the Cross River State Police Command had yet to release an official statement concerning the incident. However, concerned residents are urging law enforcement and government authorities to intervene swiftly and restore peace to the troubled community.
Local leaders have also called for intensified security patrols in the area and for investigations to be launched to bring those responsible to justice.
The community remains tense, with fears of further violence hanging in the air
Get a premium automobile insurance coverage for your vehicle for as low as #15000 only and claim up to #3,000,000 in damages @Zenith Insurance To signup: WhatsApp/Call: +2349028313757
