The Anambra State Government has pledged to apprehend those responsible for the fatal cult-related violence in Nibo, Awka South Local Government Area, where 13 people were killed during an attack on Sunday.
According to The PUNCH, the incident, which took place near the venue of the community’s New Yam festival, “Nibo Onwa Asaa,” saw gunmen, believed to be cultists, opening fire on a crowd near Oye Nwochichi Market.
Eight individuals were killed on the spot, with additional victims succumbing to injuries at a separate location.
According to eyewitnesses, the assailants, who arrived in a Lexus 300 jeep, unleashed gunfire on people enjoying the festivities, causing panic and multiple casualties.
In response to the tragedy, Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Law Mefor, issued a statement on Monday confirming that the government was aware of the attack and had launched efforts to capture those responsible.
“The Anambra State Government is fully aware of the deaths resulting from the cult-related killings in Nibo on Sunday, October 20, 2024,” Mefor said.
“This is yet another example of the violent crimes tied to cult activities that have plagued the state, and we are committed to putting an end to these senseless acts.”
The commissioner expressed the government’s condolences to the families of the victims, while assuring the public that authorities are determined to bring those responsible to justice.
“We sympathize with the families of the deceased and assure them that we will thoroughly investigate the incident and ensure the culprits are held accountable,” he added.
Mefor urged the public to cooperate by providing any useful information that could lead to the arrest of the attackers, promising confidentiality and a reward for anyone who offers relevant leads.
“We encourage residents to continue their normal activities without fear as the state government, in collaboration with security agencies, works to handle the situation,” he said.
