One killed in Akwa Ibom cult clash

A man simply identified as Sylvanus Ukpong was reportedly killed in a cult clash between two rival groups at Ifa Atai in the Eket Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom.

PUNCH Metro gathered that the two suspected rival cult groups were Black Axe Confraternity and Klansmen Confraternity.

It was also learnt that the victim was killed during an unsuccessful attempt to kidnap him by the cult groups on Tuesday.

When contacted, the state Police Public Relations Officer, MacDon Odiko, confirmed the incident to our correspondent.

Odiko, who said two suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, added that normalcy has been restored in the area and that an investigation is ongoing.

He said, “I can confirm the clash, but normalcy has been restored in Eket. However, the investigation is ongoing, and there is a clear directive from CP Waheed Ayilara to identify and bring perpetrators to justice.”

He further stated that the state Commissioner of Police, Waheed Ayilara, has promised to apprehend the perpetrators. “Furthermore, the CP has condemned the killing and vowed to arrest, in the shortest possible time, the killers of one Sylvanus Ukpong, who was murdered at Ifa Atai in a failed attempt to abduct him.

“While reiterating his commitment to providing security for residents of Akwa Ibom State, the CP said perpetrators of violent crimes in the state will be arrested and held accountable.”

In February, PUNCH Metro reported that a suspected leader of the Eiye confraternity, identified simply as Oloba, was killed by a rival cult group.

PUNCH Metro gathered that Oloba was attacked by suspected members of a rival cult group in the Ijeja area of Abeokuta South Local Government Area of Ogun State while entering his house and was shot at by the assailants.Punch