The Anambra State Police Command has clarified that the recent killings near the Nnamdi Azikiwe University gate in Ifite-Awka were not motivated by ethnic or religious bias. The attack, which occurred on Thursday, reportedly claimed at least nine lives, with several others injured, as unknown assailants—suspected to be cultists—opened fire.
In response to circulating social media videos alleging ethnic targeting, Police Command spokesperson Tochukwu Ikenga issued a statement on Friday, affirming that the incident was unrelated to any ethnic or religious targeting. According to Ikenga, the assailants began shooting sporadically after the police became aware of their activities and attempted to apprehend them.
Ikenga stated, “Preliminary findings indicate that the armed men started shooting indiscriminately in an attempt to escape arrest after their presence in the area raised alarms.” He also emphasized that the police are intensifying patrols and surveillance to curb further violence.
The Police Command extended condolences to the victims’ families and pledged a thorough investigation. “We are committed to ensuring that the perpetrators of this horrific crime face justice,” Ikenga added.
This incident follows a recent spike in cult-related violence in Anambra State, where clashes on October 20 in Nibo and Nodu-Okpuno reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 13 individuals, with violence erupting around the Nibo Onwa Asaa festival.
