Renewed Cult Clashes Leave Five Feared Dead Across Benin City
Tension has once again gripped Benin City, the Edo State capital, following renewed cult-related violence that has reportedly left at least five people dead between Monday and Tuesday. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Sources say the killings are the result of a bloody turf war between suspected members of the Maphite and Black Axe cult groups—two rival factions with a long history of violence in the state.
💥 Deadly Attacks Across the City
Residents identified the deceased as Lucky Okotie, Yoyin, George, another man also named Lucky, and Abel.
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George, a mechanic, was gunned down in front of his workshop on Oza Street, off Sakponba Road, Monday evening.
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Yoyin was shot the same night near Oroghene Street, off Siluko Road, by suspected rival cultists.
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Another fatal attack occurred on Wire Road around 7:30 pm, while one victim was murdered in broad daylight on Ewah Road Tuesday.
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Lucky, a family man, was attacked inside his home on 3rd East Circular Road at about 6 pm.
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Lucky Okotie was killed near 2nd West while buying roasted corn; he reportedly died in traffic after oxygen deprivation while being rushed to the hospital.
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A fifth unidentified victim was killed in broad daylight near Textile Mill Road.
😨 Residents Live in Fear
A resident named Ibrahim recounted the horrifying moment gunmen stormed Lucky’s residence:
“They shot him in front of his wife and kids. It was shocking. No one is safe anymore.”
Eyewitnesses also described scenes of panic as armed men carried out coordinated attacks without fear of being apprehended.
🚨 Police Yet to Make Official Statement
Efforts to reach Edo State Police Command spokesperson, Moses Yamu, were unsuccessful, as he did not respond to calls or messages at press time.
However, a senior officer—speaking under anonymity—confirmed that security forces are tracking suspects and intensifying patrols in flashpoint areas.
“We are pursuing those involved and working hard to restore calm,” the officer said.