In the midst of escalating tensions attributed to suspected rival cult activities, another tragic incident unfolded late on Tuesday at the UNIZIK temporary site junction in Awka, the capital of Anambra State.

A middle-aged man identified by locals as “Nwanayoeze” was fatally shot near the Tricycle Park, UNIZIK Junction.

The assailants swiftly fled the scene, leaving the victim behind. Reportedly, members of his alleged cult group arrived later to remove his body, presumably to evade detection by law enforcement.

Witnesses, including traders in the vicinity, attested to the prominence of the deceased within the community, indicating that he was widely feared.

The spate of violence in Awka has been ongoing, with numerous casualties attributed to clashes between rival cult factions, particularly targeting members of opposing groups.

Sources suggest that the conflicts are exacerbated by disputes over revenue control from tricycle and shuttle bus operators, involving the sale of tickets and emblems.

The situation reached a grim peak on Easter Sunday, with six individuals reportedly losing their lives in cult-related incidents. Prior to that, three more fatalities occurred the same weekend, further amplifying tension in the area.

In response to the latest incident, the Anambra State police spokesperson, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, acknowledged awareness of the unverified reports regarding Nwanayoeze’s killing.

However, police investigations found no evidence at the scene, prompting intensified patrols in Awka as authorities collaborate with residents to ascertain the facts surrounding the incident.