In a rising spiral of violence in Anambra State, four people have lost their lives, and no fewer than 15 others are in hospital after a violent cult-related clash at a funeral ceremony in Ogidi, , Idemili North Local Government Area.

The incident happened on Thursday, September 11, when armed men suspected to be cultists stormed Ezi Village during the burial. Witnesses said the attackers fired indiscriminately at mourners, sending people running in panic.

Police confirmed the killings and said officers recovered 16 expended cartridges at the scene. Victims were rushed to nearby hospitals.

“Following a distress call in the late hours of September 11, armed men suspected to be cultists invaded a burial ceremony and opened fire on attendees. Four persons died while fifteen others sustained serious injuries,” the police spokesperson said.

Police Response and Investigations

Police operatives from Ogidi Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, quickly mobilised to restore calm. The Anambra Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the attack.

He assured residents that the Command remains committed to eradicating cult violence and other criminal acts. “We urge the public to remain calm, security-conscious, and report suspicious movements to the nearest police formation,” he said.

Preliminary findings suggest the killings were linked to a rivalry between cult groups that have terrorised several communities in the state in recent months. Similar clashes have left scores dead across Anambra and neighbouring states.

Human Rights Group Condemns State Violence

Meanwhile, the Foundation for Environmental Rights Advocacy and Development (FENRAD) has condemned another violent incident in Anambra — the killing of a pregnant woman and three others during a clash at Onitsha Main Market.

According to FENRAD, the deaths occurred when traders resisted what they saw as unlawful actions by operatives of the Operation Clean and Healthy Anambra (OCHA Brigade). The confrontation spiralled into violence, leaving four people dead.

“This deeply disturbing event is not an isolated case but part of a growing pattern of rampant bloodletting in Anambra State, often carried out in the name of enforcement, order, or environmental sanitation,” said Comrade Nelson Nnanna Nwafor, the group’s Executive Director.

The group described the incident as a “tragic and unacceptable display of state-sanctioned violence” and demanded justice for victims. It also called for suspension and prosecution of the OCHA operatives involved, compensation for families, and urgent reforms in enforcement practices.

FENRAD urged Governor Charles Soludo to act decisively. “Governor Soludo must ensure innocent blood is never shed again in the name of enforcement,” the statement read.

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