In a tragic resurgence of violence, at least 19 individuals have been reported dead following a brutal confrontation between rival cult groups in Obelle Community, located within the Emohua Local Government Area of Rivers State. The incident, which occurred on Sunday, has instilled widespread fear, prompting many residents to abandon their homes in search of safety.
Background of the Conflict
The recent bloodshed is part of an ongoing feud between two notorious cult groups: the Deybam and the Icelanders. These groups have a long-standing history of rivalry, primarily driven by the quest for territorial dominance and control over lucrative resources in the region. The Deybam cult, also known as Deebam, originated as the street wing of the Klansmen Konfraternity, while the Icelanders were formed as an offshoot of the Supreme Vikings Confraternity. Both groups have been implicated in numerous violent incidents across the Niger Delta.
The Immediate Trigger
Tensions escalated earlier in the week when, on Wednesday, unidentified gunmen believed to be affiliated with one of the cults invaded Obelle Community, resulting in the deaths of seven individuals. This attack exacerbated existing animosities, setting the stage for Sunday’s deadly confrontation. According to local sources, the initial assault targeted members of a specific group, leading to a retaliatory strike that spiraled into widespread violence.
Eyewitness Accounts
Residents of Obelle have recounted harrowing experiences from the day of the clash. Kingsley, a local inhabitant, described the chaos: “On Sunday, cultists clashed in our community. Many people have been killed, including innocent residents. The shooting was too intense, and people started fleeing the community. About 19 people have been killed.” He further detailed how the assailants targeted relatives of perceived rival group members, leading to indiscriminate killings and widespread panic.
Official Response
The Rivers State Police Command has acknowledged the incident. Spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko confirmed the clash, attributing it to disputes over levies imposed by an oil company operating in the area. She stated, “It is a cult clash between loyalists of Naked Wire and Carol. They are fighting over the control of levies from an oil company operating in the area. About ten confirmed dead. No arrest yet, but investigation is ongoing.” The discrepancy in the reported death toll highlights the chaotic nature of the situation and the challenges in obtaining accurate information amidst the turmoil.
Historical Context of Cultism in Rivers State
Cultism has been a persistent issue in Rivers State and the broader Niger Delta region. Originally emerging within university campuses as fraternities, these groups have evolved into formidable criminal entities exerting significant influence over local communities. The Deybam and Icelanders, among others, have been involved in various illicit activities, including oil bunkering, kidnapping, and armed robbery. Their operations are often intertwined with local politics and economic interests, particularly concerning the control of resources and revenues from oil companies.
Impact on the Community
The resurgence of cult violence has had devastating effects on Obelle Community. The immediate loss of life is compounded by the displacement of residents, many of whom have fled their homes to escape the violence. The local economy, already fragile, faces further strain as businesses shut down and agricultural activities are abandoned. Social services, including education and healthcare, are disrupted, leaving vulnerable populations without essential support.
Calls for Intervention
Community leaders and residents are urgently appealing to the government and security agencies for intervention. The pervasive fear is that without immediate action, the violence could escalate, leading to further loss of life and destabilization of the region. Kingsley, reflecting the sentiments of many locals, pleaded, “We are calling on the government to come to our aid. These cult groups are tearing our community apart. We need the police and the army to step in and stop this madness.”
Broader Implications
The situation in Obelle is emblematic of a larger security challenge facing the Niger Delta. The entrenchment of cult groups, their involvement in economic activities, and their connections to political entities create a complex web that complicates efforts to restore peace. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach that includes strengthening security measures, promoting economic development, and fostering community engagement to dismantle the structures that enable such groups to thrive.
Conclusion
The tragic events in Obelle Community underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to combat cult-related violence in Rivers State. As investigations continue and authorities deliberate on the best course of action, the priority remains ensuring the safety and well-being of the affected residents and preventing further bloodshed in the region.
