Edo: Five feared dead in renewed cult clashes across Benin City

At least five people were reportedly killed between Monday and Tuesday in the Benin metropolis of Edo State, following a resurgence of violence linked to a rivalry between suspected members of the Maphite and Black Axe cult groups.

Sources confirmed that the killings occurred at various locations across the city, as tension continues to grip residents in the wake of the renewed turf war.

Community members identified the deceased as Lucky Okotie, Yoyin, George, Lucky, and Abel.

One of the victims, George, a mechanic, was said to have been gunned down in front of his workshop along Oza Street, off Sakponba Road, on Monday evening. Similarly, Yoyin was reportedly shot and killed that same evening around Oroghene Street, off Siluko Road, by suspected members of a rival cult group.

Another fatal attack reportedly occurred at about 7:30 pm along Wire Road, while another person was murdered in broad daylight on Tuesday around Ewah Road.

A resident identified as Ibrahim told DAILY POST that one of the victims, Lucky, was attacked and killed inside his home in front of his family when gunmen stormed his residence along 3rd East Circular Road at around 6 pm on Monday.

Another eyewitness recounted that Lucky Okotie, one of the identified victims, had stepped out to purchase roasted corn when he was shot near the 2nd West area. He reportedly died from lack of oxygen after the vehicle conveying him to hospital was trapped in traffic.

The fifth victim, whose identity had yet to be confirmed as of press time, was reportedly killed in broad daylight on Monday around Textile Mill Road.

Efforts to obtain an official response from the Edo State Police Command proved unsuccessful, as the command’s spokesperson, Moses Yamu, did not respond to calls or messages.

However, a senior police officer, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that law enforcement agencies were actively pursuing those involved in the violent clashes and working to restore calm.