Cult Violence in Makurdi Leaves 3 Dead and Several Homes Burned in Wadata and Iniongun

Violence broke out once again in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, Nigeria, as rival cult groups clashed, resulting in the death of three people, serious injuries to others, and widespread property destruction.

What Sparked the Cult Clash in Makurdi?

According to local sources, the chain of violence began during the wake-keep of a retired military officer, Odoba Edoh, in Wadata. During the event, suspected cultists opened fire, killing three individuals believed to be affiliated with a rival group. One additional person was critically injured and is currently receiving medical treatment at a Makurdi hospital.

This shocking incident triggered a wave of reprisal attacks across the area.

Tuesday Night Attack in Iniongun: Innocent Residents Affected

At approximately 9:00 PM on Tuesday, a heavily armed cult faction stormed the Iniongun area, targeting properties believed to harbor members of a rival cult group. The assailants set fire to several buildings in what eyewitnesses described as a coordinated and premeditated attack.

Unfortunately, many of the homes set ablaze belonged to innocent landlords and tenants. These individuals were reportedly unaware that their properties were being rented out to suspected cult members, making them unintended victims of the ongoing turf war.

“They just attacked homes blindly. The real targets were not even in those houses,” a resident told local reporters.

Wadata Rice Mill Incident: More Violence Unfolds

The aftermath of the wake-keep shooting led to further bloodshed. On Tuesday morning, two men believed to be associated with the cult group responsible for the wake-keep violence were attacked with machetes near the Rice Mill area of Wadata. While both men sustained life-threatening injuries, they managed to escape the scene alive.

Community Reactions: Fear and Insecurity Grow

There is a growing sense of fear in both Wadata and Iniongun. Local residents are calling on security agencies to step up efforts to curb the rising tide of cult-related violence and ensure the safety of innocent civilians.

Internal Security Concerns

Authorities have yet to release an official statement. However, this is not the first time cult clashes have rocked Makurdi. The recurring nature of these violent confrontations raises serious questions about the effectiveness of local policing and intelligence operations.

Call to Action

Makurdi residents are urged to remain vigilant and report suspicious movements to the nearest security agencies. If you live in a high-risk area, consider reading our guide on Community Policing Strategies for Safer Nigerian Cities to stay informed and safe.