A violent clash between rival cult groups has left eight people dead in the Awarra and Ochia communities of Ohaji/Egbema Local Government Area, Imo State. The deadly conflict has sparked fear and displacement among residents as the tension continues to rise.
According to reports, the clash, which has shaken the local communities, claimed the lives of five cult members, while three innocent residents tragically died from shock after hearing gunfire. One individual was also abducted, with their whereabouts still unknown.
A community leader, speaking to Punch under anonymity, expressed frustration over the lack of government action to curb the growing violence. He urged both the Nigeria Police and the Imo State Government to step in and provide security, allowing displaced residents to return to their homes. Many have fled to neighboring communities, seeking refuge in churches and struggling with no food or access to their farmlands.
“Our people have been forced to abandon their homes and are now living in makeshift shelters in places like Assa, Obile, Obosima, and Umuokanne. The economic hardship has made their situation even worse,” the community leader lamented.
To address the crisis, the communities of Awarra and Ochia have formed a local committee tasked with finding ways to restore peace. The leader expressed hope that the committee’s efforts would bring lasting peace and allow the residents to resume their normal lives.
Meanwhile, a youth leader, who also requested anonymity for safety reasons, revealed that the violence stems from a battle for control over the proceeds from oil companies operating in the region. He explained that one faction is led by a man known as Acid, while the rival group is headed by Achis, both fighting for supremacy.
“It’s all about control of the oil money,” the youth leader said. “So far, at least four people have been killed, but things are calming down now after the government's intervention.”
Imo State Police Command spokesperson, Henry Okoye, confirmed the incident and stated that security forces had been receiving numerous reports about criminal activity in the area. He emphasized that the police, along with other security agencies, are working tirelessly to restore peace.
“The police, in collaboration with other security personnel, have intensified efforts to bring peace to Ohaji. The Commissioner of Police has held multiple meetings with local stakeholders, and we have made several arrests,” Okoye noted.
He also stressed that the community’s cooperation is crucial for achieving lasting security. “The Commissioner of Police has personally visited Ohaji, and the engagement with stakeholders is already yielding positive results. We’re doing everything possible to ensure peace returns to the area.”
Graphic videos of the victims have circulated on social media, shared by a Facebook user, Ahamba Bestman.
