Renewed cult clash claims 3 lives in Benue community

No fewer than three people were reportedly killed during a clash between two rival cult groups in Gboko town, Gboko local government area of Benue State.

Several people were reportedly injured during the clash which started on Saturday till Sunday.

The situation was later brought to a halt due to the collaboration of security agencies within the town.

The clash was said to have been caused by a misunderstanding between the rival groups which led to the killing of one of the members of the rival groups.

“Actually, no one can tell the cause of the fight between the rival cult groups. But we learned that there was a misunderstanding between the rival groups which led to the killing of a member of another group,” a source who did not want to be mentioned said.

Chairman of Gboko Local Government Area, Mr Issac Mtom in a statement appealed for calm and vigilance in the town assuring that security agencies were on top of the situation.

A statement by his Special Assistant, Media and Publicity, Bright Antyo confirmed the death of three persons in the clash.

“The Chairman of Gboko Local Government Council has called on all residents of Gboko to remain calm and vigilant amidst a suspected clash between two rival cult groups.

“He made the call while receiving reports of the attacks carried out by groups which have allegedly claimed the lives of three youths already.

“He reiterated his zero tolerance for any form of violence or activities capable of causing chaos and destabilising the peace and security of Gboko LGA. He called on youths to shun cultism as anyone caught will be made to face the law.

“The Chairman assured that security personnel have been briefed to flush out the perpetrators and other dreaded cultists. He urged residents to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies and offer relevant information that will lead to the apprehension of the murderers,” the statement read in parts.

Meanwhile, the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Anene who confirmed the crisis said 30 suspects had been arrested and conveyed to the Command headquarters in Makurdi.

“I can not confirm if there is casualty or not but the information I gathered now is that 30 suspects were arrested in connection with the crisis in Gboko and the suspects are on their way to Makurdi,” Anene said.