Eight people have been reported dead following violent clashes between cultists in the Awarra and Ochia communities of the Ohaji/Egbema local government area in Imo State.
A community leader, speaking on the condition of anonymity, attributed the escalating violence to the state government’s failure to curb the relentless attacks by cult groups.
“Eight lives have been lost in this conflict. Of the deceased, five were cult members, while three community members collapsed and died upon hearing the gunfire. One person who was abducted remains missing,” the leader stated.
He urged the police and the Imo State Government to take action, ensuring that those who fled the communities in fear can return safely.
“Our people have been displaced, seeking refuge in churches in neighboring areas such as Assa, Obile, Obosima, and Umuokanne. They are suffering due to a lack of food and access to their homes and farms. Imagine being forced to live outside your home during such economic hardship,” he lamented.
In an effort to restore peace, a committee has been formed in Awarra and Ochia to formulate strategies to address the crisis.
The community leader expressed optimism that the committee would succeed in establishing lasting peace. “We need peace to return so our people can resume normal lives.”
When contacted, Imo State Police Public Relations Officer Henry Okoye acknowledged the ongoing complaints regarding attacks by criminal elements in the area.
“The police have been actively working to restore peace in Ohaji. The Commissioner of Police has held multiple meetings with local stakeholders, and security strategies have been enhanced in collaboration with other agencies.
“The safety of Ohaji also relies on the community’s involvement, as we cannot effectively secure the area without their full cooperation. The Commissioner has personally visited Ohaji, and our collaboration with local leaders is yielding positive results, including several arrests. Overall, security in Ohaji has improved under the current police administration. We are committed to restoring peace and order.”
A youth leader, who requested anonymity, emphasized that the clash is a power struggle between rival cults vying for control of proceeds from oil companies in the region.
“This conflict stems from a rivalry between two groups fighting for dominance over the funds that flow into Awarra and Ochia from the oil companies operating there. One group is led by a figure known as Acid, while the other is headed by Achis, with both sides intent on displacing each other.”
