Deadly shootings claim multiple lives in Anambra capital

A deadly shooting spree in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, on Thursday morning has reportedly claimed multiple lives, sparking fears of cult-related violence in the area. The incident, which took place around 9:15 a.m. in Ifite Awka, a neighborhood largely populated by students of Nnamdi Azikiwe University (Unizik), has left the community in shock.

Eyewitnesses reported that gunmen opened fire near the back gate of the university, close to Amansea Road, leaving several people dead. One source, a student, described seeing a lifeless body shortly after the shooting. Another witness, a university lecturer, shared that she came across seven bodies and had to abandon her lectures due to the chaos.

The shooting follows a similar incident last Sunday, in which 12 people were killed in a suspected cult-related attack in nearby Nibo, raising concerns that Thursday's violence may also be linked to ongoing cult activities in the region.

While the exact number of casualties remains unclear, Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer Tochukwu Ikenga confirmed that police teams have secured the scene and are investigating the situation. In a related statement, Ikenga revealed that the police had intercepted disturbing videos and voice notes threatening violence in the state. He assured the public that security patrols and surveillance have been heightened to maintain peace and order.

As investigations continue, residents of Awka are urged to remain vigilant while authorities work to prevent further outbreaks of violence in the area.