A suspected cult clash has claimed the life of a middle-aged man identified simply as Yemi in Iyara community, Warri South Local Government Area of Delta State.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when suspected rival cult members allegedly stormed the deceased’s residence and attacked him with machetes.
Sources in the area told reporters that the assailants were believed to be members of a rival cult group and targeted Yemi at his home.
According to residents, the attackers reportedly trailed the victim to his residence before hacking him to death and fleeing the scene.
The killing has thrown the community into mourning, with many residents describing the deceased as a lively and friendly young man who was known for his singing talent and cheerful disposition.
“Yemi was a good singer, full of life and always making people laugh. He related well with everyone and was very friendly,” a resident said.
Some community sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, alleged that the deceased had previously been linked to the killing of another youth in the area. According to them, a video allegedly circulated after the incident, leading to his arrest by security operatives.
The sources claimed that Yemi was taken to Zone 5 Police Headquarters for investigation and was recently released on bail after spending some time at the Okere Correctional Centre. They further alleged that he had only recently recovered from a gunshot wound to his leg before his death.
Residents expressed concern over the rising wave of cult-related violence in Warri and called on security agencies to intensify efforts to curb the menace.
They lamented that many young people were losing their lives to cult clashes at a time when the country was already battling insecurity, including kidnapping, banditry and terrorism.
“Something urgent must be done to stop these killings before our youths wipe themselves out. Rather than killing one another, young people should unite against the security challenges facing our communities,” a resident said.
Efforts to obtain official confirmation from the Delta State Police Command were unsuccessful as calls made to the police spokesperson did not go through as of the time of filing this report.