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The Anambra State Government has pledged to pursue the individuals responsible for the recent cult-related killings in the Nibo community, Awka South Local Government Area, which resulted in the deaths of at least 13 people on Sunday.
The tragic incident occurred when armed assailants, suspected to be cult members, attacked an area close to the Oye Nwochichi Market during the community’s New Yam festival, known as the ‘Nibo onwa asaa’ festival. Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers arrived in a Lexus 300 jeep and opened fire on revelers, killing eight individuals on the spot before moving to another location where additional casualties were reported.
In a statement issued on Monday, Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, acknowledged the incident and outlined the government’s immediate response to track down those responsible.
“The Anambra State Government is aware of the deaths that resulted from alleged cult-related killings that occurred in Nibo, Awka South LG, on Sunday, October 20, 2024. This is just another instance of the kind of violent crimes linked to cults that have occurred recently, and the state government is determined to put an end to it,” the statement read.
Mefor expressed condolences to the families of the victims and assured them that the government would thoroughly investigate the incident and hold those accountable. He encouraged the public to share any relevant information that could aid in the arrest of the perpetrators, emphasizing that such tips would be treated confidentially and may be rewarded.
The Commissioner also urged law-abiding citizens to continue their daily activities without fear as the government collaborates with security forces to address the situation. He mentioned that hotlines would soon be provided for the public to report any related information.