By: Emmanuel Kehinde.

ASABA — Tension has reportedly gripped a community in Asaba, Delta State following the alleged brutal killing of a young man, identified as Chukwudi Ifanyin, by suspected members of the Marphite confraternity.

Eyewitness accounts indicated that the incident occurred along a bush path near a residential area in Asaba shortly after an evening church service on the September 16, 2022.

A resident, Mr. William Jefferson Chidera( Myke-Chukwumah), was said to have inadvertently witnessed the attack while returning home from church.

Sources within the neighbourhood disclosed that the assailants reportedly descended on the victim and killed him in what was described as a gruesome manner. The motive for the killing was alleged to be linked to a dispute over a girlfriend said to have been involved with a member of the confraternity.

It was further gathered that one of the suspected cultists allegedly spotted Mr. Chidera at the scene and recognised him as a resident of the area. Fearing that he could expose their identities, the group was said to have confronted him afterward with an ultimatum — to either join their ranks or face dire consequences.

Mr. Chidera, who hails from Ndokwa East Local Government Area of Delta State and resides at 7 Ebilaim Busch Street, Asaba, was reportedly thrown into fear following the threat.

Family sources revealed that after allegedly losing patience with him, some suspected members of the group stormed his residence but met his absence.

He was said to have fled the area and is currently seeking refuge in an undisclosed location over concerns for his safety.

Efforts to reach the Delta State Police Command for official confirmation were unsuccessful at the time of filing this report.

Residents have, however, called on security agencies to intensify surveillance and curb cult-related violence in the area.

The incident has heightened anxiety among community members, who expressed worry over the recurring menace of cultism and its impact on public safety.