At least three people have been killed in a violent cult clash in Warri, Delta State, sparking tension and fear across parts of the city.
The victims include two suspected members of the Eya confraternity who were shot dead in the Odion area, and another victim, identified simply as Five Alive, a member of the rival Vikings confraternity, who was killed in the Ugbuwangwe community.
Residents said the violence reportedly began after a dispute between two youths over a woman. The disagreement allegedly escalated due to poor handling, eventually resulting in reprisal attacks and multiple deaths.
As of press time, there was palpable tension in Warri, with residents calling on security agencies to increase patrols and prevent further violence.
Confirming the incident, Chairman of the Anti-Cultism Committee, Warri Zone, Mr. Justice Afor, said he had earlier warned community leaders about a possible escalation after the first killing. He lamented that his warnings were ignored, allowing the situation to worsen.
According to Afor, the initial killing occurred in Ugbuwangwe, while two others were later killed in the Odion area. He noted that prompt involvement of security agencies could have prevented the violence.
Afor urged community leaders to promptly report cult-related disputes to the police and appealed to the government to intensify public sensitisation and community cooperation to curb cult activities in the area.