Gunmen suspected to be cultists have reportedly shot dead a tricycle operator in Ohovbe community, Ikpoba-Okha local government area of Edo state.
The victim who was simply identified as Tony, was said to be returning from school runs when his assailants struck.
Blueprint gathered that the gunmen afterwards used cutlass to inflict deep cuts on Tony’s remains and simultaneouly sang anti-rival cult songs before leaving the scene.
The incident occurred at about 7.30am on Friday.
An eyewitness who declined to give his details said the gunmen rode on a tricycle otherwise known as Keke Napep from Aduwawa axis into the community and exited through the same route after hitting their target.
It was gathered that the victim whose wife was delivered of a baby girl in January is a father of four.
Cult clashes between members of Eiye and rival Black Axe confraternity group have reportedly claimed over 18 lives since January 1, 2021.
Similarly, a police constabulary, and the owner of shelle bar was shot dead along the notorious third circular road by Esigie junction.
One other person, a female who was reportedly hit by stray bullet was said to have died before help could come her way.
The armed police constabulary was said to be guarding the drinking bar at the time due to rising insecurity in Benin City, the state capital.
He was reportedly sitting close to the owner of the bar when the gunmen open fire on them from a Toyota Sienna bus.
SP. Chidi Nwanbuzor, the State police spokesman said he was yet to be briefed.
