Cultism: The Menace Scaring Awka Residents from Their Homes

In Awka, the capital of Anambra State, cult-related violence has surged to alarming levels, causing many residents, particularly the elites, to flee their homes and seek refuge in hotels at night. The once-peaceful community now grapples with frequent killings, often leaving dead bodies strewn across the streets following clashes between rival cult groups.

Over the past five years, Awka has witnessed an escalation in cult activities, with violence extending beyond tertiary institutions to markets, secondary schools, and among tricycle operators. Areas such as Ifite, Okpuno, Dike Street near Eke Awka Main Market, Obinagu, Nkwelle, Ezinano, and UNIZIK junction have become notorious for these deadly incidents.

Recently, a young man in his 20s was gunned down in broad daylight at the bustling Aroma area by suspected cultists. The killing, which took place at a filling station, caused widespread panic and led to the closure of nearby businesses. The victim, a tricycle revenue collector from Amudo Village, was followed from Ifite and shot at close range. On the same day, another youth was killed by suspected cultists at a bus stop, further heightening fears among residents.

The violence reached a peak this Easter Sunday when a shooting spree at Eke Awka spread to other parts of the city, resulting in multiple deaths. Among the victims was Mr. Nwofor, a staff member of the Anambra State Judiciary, who was hit by a stray bullet while going about his daily routine.

Hon. Henry Mbachu, representing Awka 1 state constituency in the Anambra State House of Assembly, revealed that at least 34 people had been killed in cult-related clashes in Awka over three weeks. Mbachu, a Labour Party lawmaker, expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation in the state capital, despite the presence of top government officials and security agencies.

In response, Mbachu convened a summit with major stakeholders, including Ozo title holders, village heads, women leaders, clergy, and politicians, to address the crisis. He also toured major Nigerian cities to rally support from Awka residents nationwide. Mbachu emphasized the need for a collective effort to combat the menace, criticizing the inability of security agencies to effectively tackle the issue.

To curb the cult-related violence, Awka’s Ozo title holders have decreed that any member who helps secure bail for cult-related offenses will be excommunicated and stripped of their title. Ozo Ndu Nwakalor, the secretary of the Ozo society, announced this measure as part of the community’s efforts to restore order. Mrs. Ogechukwu Ekwuozor, President General of Awka Women’s Town Union, urged security agencies to prioritize the city’s safety and called on mothers to closely monitor their children’s activities.

Labour Party chieftain Mr. Valentine Ozigbo stressed the importance of providing employment opportunities for the youth as a means to combat insecurity. Meanwhile, Chief Victor Umeh, Senator representing Anambra Central Senatorial District, urged residents to mobilize against cult activities, highlighting the negative impact of insecurity on Awka’s development.

Professor Lilian Orogbu, representing Awka North and Awka South Federal Constituency, and Mr. Somtochukwu Udeze, member of the State House of Assembly, expressed optimism that the recently passed anti-cult law, which stipulates severe punishments for cultists and their accomplices, would soon bring an end to the crisis. They called for swift implementation of the law to restore peace and security in Awka.