Four persons were killed while no fewer than fifteen others sustained varying degrees of injury in a bloody cult-related clash at a burial ceremony in Ogidi community in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
According to reports and videos trending on social media, the incident occurred on Thursday at Ezi Village, Ogidi, when the suspected cultists stormed the scene and opened fire indiscriminately on mourners.
The clips showed some of the victims battling for their lives at an undisclosed hospital where they were rushed for treatment.
Confirming the incident, Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga, said the Command has since launched a discreet investigation to identify, trace and arrest the perpetrators.
He said preliminary findings suggested that the incident was not unconnected to a clash between rival cult groups.
According to Ikenga: “Following a distress call in the late hours of September 11, 2025, that armed men suspected to be cultists invaded a burial ceremony at Ezi Village, Ogidi, Idemili North LGA and opened fire on the attendees, resulting in the death of four persons while fifteen others sustained serious injuries.
“Police Operatives from Ogidi Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, swiftly mobilized to the scene, restored normalcy, and immediately evacuated the victims to hospitals for medical attention.
“In the course of the operation, 16 (sixteen) expended cartridges were recovered as exhibits.
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“The Command has since launched a discreet investigation to identify, trace, and arrest the perpetrators, as preliminary findings suggest that the incident is connected to a clash between rival cult groups.
“The Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has strongly condemned the incident and assures residents that the Command remains resolute in its commitment to rid the State of cult-related violence and other criminal activities.
“The Command urges members of the public to remain calm, security-conscious, and to continue to provide useful information by reporting suspicious movements or persons to the nearest Police formation.”