By: Tunde opalana.

In recent years, Edo State has become synonymous with cult-related killings, with thousands reportedly losing their lives in clashes that show no signs of ending.

From the bodies that littered the streets of Benin City in November 2020, to the five persons killed in early January 2021, and more than 40 others murdered in July of the same year, the state continues to reel under a wave of bloodletting.

So far this July, at least nineteen more persons have been killed in renewed cult clashes — a grim reminder that the killings have become a recurring nightmare for residents.

Investigations have linked the latest spate of killings to members of the Eiye Confraternity, a notorious cult group allegedly targeting individuals who refuse to participate in their activities or carry out assigned missions.

The group’s mode of operation is clandestine, brutal, and often indiscriminate. They not only go after rival members but also attack those who reject recruitment attempts.

Once confined to tertiary institutions, cultists now operate freely on the streets, recruiting unsuspecting young boys and girls — a disturbing trend that has dangerously eroded moral values and led to the death of many innocent citizens.

“These days, you can’t even stay out late. You never know when they’ll strike,” a resident of Benin City told our correspondent.

Nightlife in Benin City and other parts of Edo has been crippled. Residents now retire early, fearful of being caught in a crossfire.

Despite several operations and arrests ordered by the Edo State Police Command, cult groups appear undeterred, unleashing violence across communities.

In May 2021, suspected cultists invaded the residence of Ayemere Daniel Vincent-A and his elder brother at Isihor, Benin City. The attackers inflicted severe injuries on the victims before setting their house ablaze.

Good Samaritans rescued the brothers and rushed them to the hospital. The horrific incident, recorded by residents, went viral on social media and sparked widespread outrage.

Police sources reportedly could not guarantee the victims’ safety, with allegations of political interference shielding certain cult elements.

Shortly after the attack, three persons were shot dead at different locations in Benin City by suspected cultists. One of the victims, Nosa — said to be a close friend of Ayemere — was gunned down near NEPA Quarters, Ishior Junction, by members of the group allegedly searching for Vincent-A.

The killings have since spread beyond the state capital. In Auchi and other parts of Edo, cult-related attacks have claimed more lives — mostly among talented young men and artisans caught in the wrong place at the wrong time.

A landlord in Isihor, who craved anonymity, said:“Since the attack, the entire area has been tensed. We hardly sleep with both eyes closed anymore.”

Sources further alleged that the attackers are determined to eliminate Ayemere Daniel Vincent-A and his brother, expanding their manhunt beyond Edo State and even across state lines.

As the killings persist, community leaders and residents are calling for urgent government intervention. They urge the Edo State Government, security agencies, and community vigilantes to collaborate more effectively in combating cultism and prosecuting its sponsors.

Until decisive and sustained action is taken, Edo’s unending cult wars may continue to claim lives, turning once vibrant communities into territories of fear, silence, and mourning.