On Thursday morning, a shooting in Awka, the capital of Anambra State, has led to multiple deaths, according to sources.
A student eyewitness reported that the incident occurred around 9:15 a.m. in Ifite Awka, an area predominantly inhabited by Nnamdi Azikiwe University students. This source speculated that the shooting could be related to cult activities.
Last Sunday, a cult-related shooting in nearby Nibo left at least 12 people dead. Another source confirmed that Thursday’s shooting happened near the back gate of Unizik, not far from Amansea Road.
A witness stated, “Gunmen just shot a guy a few minutes ago at Ifite, Awka. He’s lying lifeless.” A lecturer who was nearby claimed to have seen seven bodies and had to turn back from her lectures due to the chaos.
The exact number of casualties is still uncertain. Tochukwu Ikenga, the State Police Public Relations Officer, did not confirm the shooting but mentioned that police teams have arrived at the scene and further details will be released soon.
Ikenga added that the police have intercepted videos and voice notes of individuals who were planning to cause violence in Awka. He said, “The Anambra State Police Command is investigating these intercepted materials threatening violence.”
He assured the community that the police are dedicated to preserving law and order and protecting citizens’ rights. In response to the situation, police and security forces have intensified patrols and surveillance efforts to ensure public safety and order throughout the state.