Hell Unleashed in Benin: Five Dead as Rival Cult Gangs Clash Violently

At least five individuals were feared dead between Monday and Tuesday following a fresh outbreak of cult-related violence in Benin City, the Edo State capital. The killings, which have been linked to renewed clashes between suspected members of the Maphite and Black Axe confraternities, have plunged several communities into panic and uncertainty.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

According to NIVONEWS, multiple sources confirmed that the victims were murdered at different locations across the metropolis, underscoring the intensity and spread of the ongoing turf war. The deceased have been identified by local residents as Lucky Okotie, Yoyin, George, Lucky (surname withheld), and Abel.

George, a mechanic, was reportedly gunned down in front of his workshop on Oza Street, off Sakponba Road, on Monday evening. That same evening, Yoyin was allegedly shot dead by rival cultists around Oroghene Street, off Siluko Road. According to NIVONEWS, another fatal incident occurred around 7:30 pm along Wire Road, while a separate daylight killing was recorded on Tuesday near Ewah Road.

One of the victims, identified as Lucky, was said to have been attacked in his home in the presence of his family around 6 pm on Monday, when gunmen stormed his residence on 3rd East Circular Road. A resident, Ibrahim, who spoke to NIVONEWS, confirmed the gruesome killing, describing it as “a cold-blooded execution.”

In another chilling episode, Lucky Okotie was reportedly shot near the 2nd West area after stepping out to buy roasted corn. He allegedly died from lack of oxygen after the vehicle transporting him to a hospital got stuck in traffic. The identity of a fifth victim, killed in broad daylight around Textile Mill Road, remained unknown as of press time.

While efforts to get an official comment from the Edo State Police Command were unsuccessful — as spokesperson Moses Yamu failed to respond to inquiries — a senior police officer, speaking anonymously, revealed that a manhunt was underway for the perpetrators and that security operatives were working to de-escalate the crisis.