A violent cult clash in the Akpehe area of Makurdi, the Benue state capital, has resulted in the deaths of at least four people, with three others sustaining serious injuries.
The incident which took place around 7pm on Sunday, occurred when armed cultists allegedly opened fire on a drinking joint on Abu Shuluwa road, sparking panic and chaos in the community.
According to CSP Catherine Sewuese Anene, the Police Public Relations Officer, the suspected cult attack has been confirmed, and an investigation is underway.
“The police have confirmed the deaths of four individuals, while others are receiving treatment at a local hospital,” she noted.
Benue state Police Commissioner, CP Emenari Ifeanyi, has warned hoodlums to desist from criminal activities, stating that he will not tolerate crime under his watch.
“The police are working to apprehend those responsible for the attack and restore peace to the community,” he noted.
This incident follows a recent killing of a police man along with three others, a situation which was attributed to cult attacks in the area, prompting concerns about the rising threat of cultism in the region.
It could also be noted that this incident happened shortly after the new Police Commissioner, was posted to the state.