A brutal resurgence of cult violence between suspected Maphite and Black Axe groups has reportedly claimed the lives of at least five people in the Benin metropolis between Monday and Tuesday of this week.
The renewed turf war has heightened tensions and instilled fear among residents across the city.
The fatalities occurred at various locations, as confirmed by sources close to the unfolding events. Community members have identified four of the deceased as Lucky Okotie, Yoyin, George, Lucky, and Abel.
One of the victims, George, a mechanic, was reportedly gunned down in front of his workshop on Oza Street, off Sakponba Road, on Monday evening.
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That same evening, Yoyin was shot dead around Oroghene Street, off Siluko Road, by suspected members of a rival cult.
Further attacks unfolded, with another fatal incident reported around 7:30 pm along Wire Road. In broad daylight on Tuesday, another individual was murdered around Ewah Road.
A resident named Ibrahim told DAILY POST that one victim, Lucky, was attacked and killed inside his home in front of his family when gunmen stormed his residence along 3rd East Circular Road around 6 pm on Monday.
Another eyewitness recounted that Lucky Okotie was shot near the 2nd West area while out to buy roasted corn. He reportedly died due to lack of oxygen after the vehicle taking him to the hospital became stuck in traffic.
The fifth victim, whose identity remains unconfirmed at press time, was reportedly killed in broad daylight on Monday around Textile Mill Road.
