19 Feared Dead in Renewed Cult Clash in Rivers State
At least 19 people were feared killed on Sunday following a renewed cult clash in Obelle Community, Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State.
The violence has triggered widespread panic, forcing residents to flee the community in search of safety.
This latest attack comes just days after seven people were killed on Wednesday when unidentified gunmen, suspected to be members of a cult group, invaded the community.
Supremacy Battle Between Rival Cult Groups
The Sunday morning clash marked the resumption of hostilities between two rival cult groups, Deybam and Icelanders, who had maintained a fragile peace for over two years.
Sources say the attack was retaliatory, as one of the groups stormed Obelle to target relatives of those suspected to be involved in the previous killings.
A resident, Kingsley, who witnessed the incident, recounted the terrifying experience.
“On Sunday, cultists clashed in our community. Many innocent people were killed. The shooting was intense, and people started fleeing. About 19 people have been killed so far,” he said.
He further explained, "The group that lost members on Wednesday invaded the community, attacking relatives of their rivals. Shortly after, the other group retaliated, and heavy gunfire ensued. People from both sides lost their lives."
Kingsley called on the government and security agencies to intervene, warning that the ongoing cult war could devastate the community.
Police Confirm Casualties, Link Clash to Oil Company Levies
Confirming the incident, Grace Iringe-Koko, spokesperson for the Rivers State Police Command, revealed that the conflict was fueled by a dispute over levies from an oil company operating in the area.
“It is a cult clash between loyalists of Naked Wire and Carol, fighting over control of oil company levies. So far, 10 deaths have been confirmed,” she stated.
She added that while no arrests have been made, an investigation is underway to track down those responsible for the violence.
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