In a disturbing turn of events, at least six individuals are feared dead following clashes between armed men believed to be members of rival cult groups in various areas of Awka, the capital city of Anambra State, on Sunday.
Reports indicate that the attacks occurred in the Okpuno area, around Eke Awka, and Obinagu. Another incident was reported at Opposite Dike Park, near Eke Awka Market, all within the city of Awka.
Witnesses in the affected areas have revealed that the victims were en route to picnics and other social gatherings when armed assailants ambushed them. The assailants, numbering in large groups, indiscriminately opened fire upon their arrival.
While the motive behind the shootings has not been officially determined, local sources suggest that the armed groups may have been engaged in a struggle for supremacy.
A resident in one of the affected areas shared, “The victims were innocently on their way to various events when they fell victim to the bullets unleashed by the armed assailants who descended upon the area around noon on Sunday.”
“The violence quickly spread to neighboring areas, resulting in additional casualties as more individuals fell prey to the gunfire,” the source added.
Tragically, among those struck by the bullets was a staff member of the Anambra State Judiciary, known simply as Nwofor. He was reportedly on his way to attend a function when he encountered the armed assailants.