No fewer than eight persons have lost their lives following violent clashes between rival cult groups in parts of Benue State, including Makurdi, the state capital, and Jato Aka in Kwande Local Government Area.
Radio Nigeria gathered that the clashes, described by security sources as a supremacy struggle for territorial dominance, erupted earlier in Otukpo and Gboko towns before spreading to other parts of the state.
One person was reportedly killed in Otukpo, while two others lost their lives in Gboko during earlier confrontations.
The violence later extended to Makurdi and Jato Aka on Wednesday, where five additional deaths were recorded, three in Makurdi and two in Jato Aka.
Eyewitnesses in Makurdi said the attacks occurred around midnight in the Wurukum area of the town.
The victims were reportedly shot at close range in separate locations before the assailants fled.
Residents expressed shock over the killings, describing the attacks as brazen and disturbing, and lamented the growing wave of cult-related violence across the state.
Reacting to the incident, the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Mr. Joseph Keffi, condemned what he termed the senseless killing of residents by suspected cult groups.
Through his media aide, Mr. Nathaniel Mayorofmbawa, the chairman conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims and assured the public of renewed efforts to restore peace.
Mr. Keffi said the council was working closely with security agencies and community stakeholders to strengthen security and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant, and cooperate with security agencies by reporting suspicious activities.
Meanwhile, the Benue State Police Command has confirmed the clash in Jato Aka.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said operatives responded promptly to the violence involving rival cult groups known as Red and Black.
According to the police, two persons were killed in Jato Aka, while others sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention.
Eight suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, while efforts are ongoing to apprehend others who escaped.
The police also recovered a locally made pistol, an expended cartridge, as well as axes and machetes during the operation.
DSP Edet assured that the arrested suspects would be charged to court, stressing that the Commissioner of Police remains committed to stamping out cultism and other criminal activities across Benue State.
Security patrols have since been intensified in affected areas to prevent further violence.