Seven die in Edo cult clashes

No fewer than seven persons were killed during separate cult clashes in some parts of Benin, the Edo State capital, on Monday.

It was learnt that among the victims of the incident, which occurred at the weekend, were a popular car wash operator, whose identity could not be ascertained at press time, and one Jude.

It was gathered that similar incidents were experienced on Erediauwa Street, off Upper Sokponba road and New Benin, where four lost their lives.

Two other persons were also said to have been killed in Okhoro.

Although details on the cause of the fracas were sketchy at the time of filing this report, it was said that the fierce clashes were as a result of a supremacy battle between three rival groups.

Confirming the incidents, the Edo Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Joseph Edogiawerie, said that another person, who was shot in a separate location, had been taken to a hospital.

Edogiawerie noted that the police had made several arrest since the unfortunate incident.

The police spokesman, however, assured residents of adequate protection of lives and property during and after the Christmas celebration.

SOURCE: PUNCH