Cult war erupts in Edo, leader killed during bloody overthrow

By Jethro Ibileke

A violent internal power struggle within the Vikings Confraternity in Edo State has reportedly resulted in the death of the cult group’s leader.

It was gathered that the clash, allegedly instigated by rival factions, occurred on Monday, December 15, 2025, along the Benin–Agbor Road.

The identity of the cult leader had not been confirmed as of press time. He was said to have been killed during what eyewitnesses described as a bloody overthrow.

A source, who craved anonymity, disclosed that the group had been thrown into crisis following its last national election, during which a candidate was allegedly imposed.

“The attackers may have intended to remove the leader without bloodshed, but once gunshots are fired, anything can happen,” the source said.

When contacted for confirmation, the Edo State Police Command’s spokesperson, ASP Eno Ikoedem, said she had yet to be briefed on the incident.