Black Sunday in Awka as suspected cultists kill three, injure many

Three persons were reportedly shot dead in Awka, Anambra State on Sunday by persons suspected to be cultists.

The killings first occurred in the Amaenyi area of Awka, a densely populated area, where two men were reportedly shot, leading to a stampede that left many people injured.

The second incident occurred on SM Okeke Street, where a popular comedian in the town, Mr Aiza Nwosu, fell victim to the assailants.

Sources said the suspected cultists had monitored Nwosu and trailed him from his house to the street before attacking him.

Aiza Nwosu was a comedian and popular town crier in Awka who carried out his duties using his Hilux truck, which was fitted with loudspeakers.

He was popularly known in Awka for driving around town and blaring loud music.

He was driving through SM Okeke Street, with his music blaring as usual, when the men who had trailed him in a Toyota Corolla with tinted windows attacked him, shooting him dead.

He died in his car while loud music was still blaring from the sound system, leaving the car in a ditch, an indication that he was caught unawares.

Although many people have testified that Nwosu had no history of cult membership, others claimed that his son was a known member of the Vikings Confraternity.

Awka has a long-standing reputation for cult clashes, which have claimed several lives.

As of the time of filing this report, police authorities were yet to speak on the incident.

Sunday’s incidents may be an indication of a renewed clash between cult groups in the city.