Violence Escalates in Awka: Over 15 Residents Murdered in Two Weeks

Awka, the capital city of Anambra State, is currently grappling with a surge in cult-related violence, with over 15 residents reportedly killed in just two weeks.

This alarming spike in violence is believed to be a result of a power struggle for revenue control, particularly among bus drivers and commercial tricycle operators.

The situation has escalated to targeted assassinations, with innocent bystanders also falling victim to the violence.

The Easter weekend marked the beginning of this wave of violence, with six youths being gunned down in various locations across the city.

The killings continued unabated, with three more individuals reportedly killed a week later.

These incidents have created a climate of fear and panic among residents, with many expressing concerns about the ability of security agencies to manage the situation effectively.

Security officials have acknowledged their frustration in dealing with the situation, citing challenges such as the release of arrested cultists by influential locals and the reluctance of families to report incidents to the police.

This has hampered the ability of law enforcement agencies to conduct thorough investigations and bring perpetrators to justice.

In response to the growing crisis, prominent stakeholders in Awka have begun working towards finding a lasting solution to the problem.

The member representing Awka South 1 constituency, Hon Henry Mbachu, the Managing Director of Awka Capital Territory Development Authority (ACTDA) Mr. Ossy Onuko, and the Transition Committee Chairman of Awka South Local Government Area, Mr Anagor ThankGod, have joined forces to address the security challenges facing the city.

Despite these efforts, the ongoing violence has forced many residents to live in fear, with some businesses closing early and people avoiding certain areas of the city.

The situation has also highlighted the need for Governor Soludo to address the issue publicly and reassure residents of their safety.

As the situation in Awka continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the combined efforts of security agencies and local stakeholders will be able to curb the violence and restore peace to the city.