Cult clashes worry A’ibom traditional rulers

The Council of Oro Traditional Rulers in Akwa Ibom State has strongly condemned the recent spate of violent killings attributed to rival cult groups in the region.

There has been a surge in cult-related violence stemming from a power struggle between two factions, resulting in multiple deaths and injuries in the area. This conflict reportedly involves members of the Baggar and Axe confraternities and has led to the tragic beheading of a 40-year-old principal from a secondary school in Oron. His decapitated body was found in the mortuary at Oron General Hospital.

Following an emergency security meeting in Okobo Local Government Area, the council issued a communiqué outlining their commitment to impose traditional sanctions on those responsible and to prevent further violence. This communiqué was signed by Council President Ahta Ita Edet Okokon, along with other traditional leaders including Matthew Unanaowo, Asukwo Abang, and Secretary Etim Oquong.

The monarchs called for all cult groups and their affiliates to cease hostilities immediately, urging law enforcement agencies to intensify their efforts to apprehend those involved in these heinous acts. “The sanctity of human life must be upheld, and individuals who disturb the peace will face serious repercussions,” they stated.