A suspected cult clash has left two men dead in Oriuzor community, Ezza North Local Government Area of Ebonyi State.
The victims a barber identified as Ogele Ifeanyi and a tricycle operator, Nweke Emmanuel were reportedly attacked on Saturday night by members of a rival cult group believed to belong to the Vikings confraternity.
Community sources told PUNCH Online that the assailants stormed the area around 10 p.m., targeting Ifeanyi, who was allegedly their main mark.
“They had been looking for him for some time. Unfortunately, they finally got him that night,” a source close to the victim said.
While Ifeanyi was reportedly killed inside his barbershop, the circumstances surrounding Emmanuel’s death remain unclear. Residents believe he was an innocent bystander who had only stopped by for a haircut when the attack occurred.
“Emmanuel was not known to be part of any cult group. He was a tricycle operator who likely walked into danger unknowingly,” another resident said.
The killings have reignited concerns over the resurgence of cult-related violence in Ebonyi communities, with locals calling on the government and security agencies to take decisive action to restore peace.
Confirming the incident, the Ebonyi State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Joshua Ukandu, said the command had launched an investigation into the killings.
“The incident occurred on 1 November 2025, around 10 p.m. The command is investigating the incident,” Ukandu stated.
Cult clashes have been a recurring problem in parts of Ebonyi State. In 2019, at least three people were killed and over ten houses burnt during a violent confrontation between rival cult groups in Akpoha community, Afikpo North Local Government Area.
Residents fear that if not urgently addressed, the latest killings could trigger renewed tension in Oriuzor and neighbouring communities.
About The Author
