ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – Tragedy struck in Awka South Local Government Area of Anambra State as a clash erupted between rival cult groups at the ever busy Eke Awka market, resulting in the loss of one life.
The victim has been identified as Igwe Omeli, allegedly a prominent figure within the Aye cult group, responsible for enforcing certain rules and levies on traders at the market.
Wednesday morning saw the rival factions locked in a fierce battle for supremacy and control over the lucrative marketplace.
Eyewitnesses reported that panic quickly spread throughout the market as traders hurriedly sought refuge within their shops.
An anonymous source, fearing for their safety, disclosed that the clash involved the Baga and Aye cult groups.
“The clash is related to market politics, but the man killed was the person they always used in terrorising us to comply with certain agenda.
READ ALSO: NDLEA Nabs Drug Syndicate, Arrests Members In Anambra
“Any time the leaders want to enforce any agenda, he is the person and others they used,” the source stated.
Regrettably, the altercation culminated in the tragic death of Igwe Omeli.
The perpetrators went to extreme lengths as they gruesomely beheaded him and mutilated his body.
“He was killed inside the market at the abattoir area, and the cult members cut his head and male organ with the butcher’s knives,” the source added.
However, further bloodshed was averted, as the rival cult members had fled the scene before the deceased’s group could respond.
This incident marks yet another violent encounter between the two groups, as a similar clash occurred a few weeks ago, resulting in another loss of life.
In response to the situation, DSP Ikenga Tochukwu, the state Police spokesman, confirmed the tragic event and reassured the public that the police have heightened surveillance in the area.
“The police operatives have intensified surveillance operations in the area, and the investigation is ongoing.
“No arrest yet. More information will be communicated later,” Ikenga stated.