An inter-cult clash in the Awarra and Ochia communities of Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, Imo State, Nigeria, has resulted in at least eight deaths, local sources reported Thursday.
A community leader, speaking on condition of anonymity, told PUNCH Metro that five of the deceased were members of the cult groups, while three community members reportedly died from shock upon hearing gunfire. One person remains missing after being abducted.
The violence has led to significant displacement, with many residents fleeing to neighboring communities such as Assa, Obile, Obosima, and Umuokanne. The community leader expressed concern about the welfare of these displaced individuals, citing lack of food and access to homes and farmlands.
Local authorities have formed a committee to address the situation and restore peace. However, the community leader criticized the state government’s inability to provide adequate security to check the cultists’ activities.
A youth leader, also speaking anonymously due to security concerns, revealed that the clash stemmed from a supremacy battle between two groups vying for control over proceeds from oil companies operating in the area. He identified the leaders of the rival factions as “Acid” and “Achis.”
In response to the violence, Henry Okoye, the Imo State Police Public Relations Officer, stated that the police have been actively working to restore peace in the Ohaji area. He mentioned that the Commissioner of Police has held meetings with local stakeholders and implemented enhanced security strategies in collaboration with other security personnel.
Okoye emphasized the importance of community cooperation in addressing the security challenges, stating, “Ohaji’s security also lies with the people of the area because there’s no way we can actually get it right without the maximum cooperation of people.”
The police spokesperson also noted that several arrests have been made and that the security situation in Ohaji has improved since the current police commissioner took office.
