Awka, the capital of Anambra State, has been gripped by a spate of cult-related killings, raising concerns among residents. The violence, which has been ongoing for years, has recently escalated, leading to fears for the safety of the city’s youth.

Investigations by Fides, a local news outlet, suggest that the root cause of the violence may be a struggle for control over revenue streams, particularly those related to the collection of taxes from bus drivers and commercial tricyclists (keke operators).

Since Easter Sunday, at least 13 people have been killed in the city, with incidents reported in various areas including Okpuno, Eke Awka, Obinagu, and Dike Park. The victims include innocent bystanders, such as a staff member of the Anambra State Judiciary, who was caught in the crossfire.

The killings have shocked the community, with many expressing concerns about the safety of residents, particularly young people. Security agencies in the area have been deployed to address the situation, but the sheer number of incidents has left them struggling to keep up.

In response to the crisis, stakeholders in Awka, including elected officials and community leaders, have begun working towards finding a lasting solution to the violence. Efforts are being made to engage with the youth and address the underlying issues driving the conflict.

However, there are concerns that the situation could worsen if decisive action is not taken. Residents are calling on Governor Soludo to speak out against the killings and take steps to protect the lives of citizens.

In a positive development, the Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a bill seeking to prohibit secret cultism and similar activities in the state. The law, if signed into law, is expected to help eradicate cult-related violence and improve security in the state.

Despite these efforts, the recent wave of violence has left many residents fearful for their safety. The community is hoping for swift and decisive action to bring an end to the bloodshed and restore peace to the city.