Babatunji Wusu –
- Multiple fatalities reported in a shooting in Awka, Anambra State.
- Incident linked to cult activities, occurring in a student-populated area.
- Eyewitness accounts describe alarming violence, with one lecturer citing seven deceased individuals.
- State police have intensified security measures and are investigating threats of further violence.
A shooting incident in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, has reportedly resulted in multiple fatalities, though the exact number of victims has yet to be confirmed. The shooting began around 9:00 AM on Thursday, primarily in Ifite Awka, an area largely populated by students from Nnamdi Azikiwe University.
Witnesses suggested that the violence may be linked to cult activities, which follows a recent outbreak of similar violence in the nearby town of Nibo, where at least 12 individuals were killed. One eyewitness recounted, “Gunmen shot a man just moments ago in Ifite, Awka. He is lying dead.” Additionally, a lecturer reported seeing seven bodies in the area and was compelled to abandon her journey to school due to the unfolding chaos.
Tochukwu Ikenga, the State Police Public Relations Officer, confirmed that a police response team has arrived at the scene, although he did not officially verify the incident. He indicated that further information would be released soon.
In a separate statement, Ikenga mentioned that the police command had intercepted videos and audio recordings of individuals planning to incite violence in Awka. He emphasized the command’s commitment to maintaining law and order, stating, “The Police Command is not taking those clips for granted and is determined to ensure that no person or group infringes on the fundamental human rights of others.” As a precaution, police and security forces have intensified patrols and surveillance to maintain public order and safety in the region.