Six people killed as cult war resumes in Edo after two-month peace
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One victim, George, who was a mechanic, was shot dead in front of his workshop on Oza Street on Monday evening. Another victim, Yoyin, was killed that same evening on Oroghene Street
At least six people have been killed in Benin City, Edo State, after a renewed fight between suspected members of the Maphite and Black Axe cult groups.
The killings happened between Monday and Tuesday at different locations in the city.
Residents who spoke to Nigerian Tribune said the victims included Lucky Okotie, Yoyin, George, another man named Lucky, and Abel.
One victim, George, who was a mechanic, was shot dead in front of his workshop on Oza Street on Monday evening. Another victim, Yoyin, was killed that same evening on Oroghene Street.
A third person was murdered around Wire Road at about 7:30 pm, and another was killed on Ewah Road on Tuesday afternoon.
A witness said one of the victims, Lucky, was killed inside his house in front of his family on 3rd East Circular Road around 6 pm on Monday.
Another resident said Lucky Okotie was shot dead while buying roasted corn around 2nd West area in Benin last weekend. He died when the car taking him to the hospital got stuck in traffic, and he ran out of oxygen.
The sixth victim, whose name was not known at press time, was killed in broad daylight on Monday on Textile Mill Road.
These killings happened after about two months of peace following Edo State Governor Senator Monday Okpehbolo’s strong actions against cult groups. Just last week, a man called Emmanuel Adekhe, known as “Biggy,” was also shot dead in Benin.
In what seemed to be revenge attacks, three other people were killed last Thursday night near a popular brothel along Wire Road.
These incidents show that some cult members are defying the government’s efforts to end cultism. The state government has demolished buildings used by cultists and promised to take all perpetrators to court.
Despite these efforts, some cult groups remain active, posing a threat to peace and safety in Edo State.
The government has asked citizens to report any suspicious activities, saying it will not be intimidated by criminals.
As of press time, the Edo State Police spokesperson, Moses Yamu, had not responded to calls or messages. However, a senior police officer said security agencies are tracking those involved to bring them to justice.
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