A deadly clash between two rival cult groups, Red and Black, has left four people dead and several houses burned in the North Bank area of Makurdi, Benue State capital . The violence erupted on Sunday and Monday, causing widespread panic and forcing residents to flee the area.
According to Alhaji Haruna Nuhu, chairman of the anti-cultism group Operations Shara, the cult gangs engaged in a gunfight at about 9 pm on Saturday, Sunday, and continued till Monday, escalating into Tuesday morning. Nuhu confirmed that four cultists were killed, but their identities remain unknown.
A resident, who spoke anonymously, described the chaos: “There was a rampage yesterday in North Bank, and this afternoon, another house was burned at Ter Guma Street. I don’t know if the government wants everyone to be wiped away before they take action.” The resident expressed concerns about the persistent cult clashes, which have affected economic and social activities in the area.
The ongoing cult violence has created fear and uncertainty among residents. Many have lost their lives, and properties have been destroyed. The situation has become a source of worry, with residents calling for government intervention.
Efforts to reach the Benue State police public relations officer, Catherine Anene, were unsuccessful. The police have yet to comment on the situation.
This incident highlights the growing concern about cult-related violence in Benue State. In January, a similar clash between local militias in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area left nine people dead and multiple homes destroyed.
