A renewed wave of violence between two rival cult groups has left three individuals dead in Onne, Eleme Local Government Area of Rivers State. The bloody confrontation, which occurred between January 31 and February 1, 2025, has reignited concerns over rising cult-related violence in the region.
Escalating Cult Rivalry Turns Deadly
According to sources, the conflict began when one cult group launched an attack on the other on Friday, January 31, resulting in the death of two members. This provoked a retaliatory strike the following day, intensifying the deadly confrontation.
Among those killed was a notorious cultist identified as ‘Small Lighter,’ whose real name was Christopher. He had allegedly been a key figure in criminal activities and terrorized residents in Eleme and its environs for a prolonged period.
The violent clash sent shockwaves through the Onne community, forcing many residents to remain indoors for fear of reprisal attacks. Several businesses and public activities in the area were temporarily halted as security forces moved in to restore order.
Police Confirm Casualties, Arrests, and Ongoing Investigation
The Rivers State Police Command has confirmed the deadly cult clash and the subsequent security measures taken to curb further violence. Spokesperson Grace Iringe-Koko, speaking on Sunday, stated that law enforcement officers had arrested three suspects in connection with the killings.
“Yes, I can confirm the cult clash. Three persons were killed, and three suspects have been arrested,” she said.
Providing further details on the incident, Iringe-Koko explained, “One of the suspects, known as ‘Small Lighter,’ who had been terrorizing the Eleme axis, killed a member of a rival cult group. In retaliation, members of the opposing group tracked him down and killed him. Another individual was killed earlier, bringing the total number of deaths to three.”
She assured the public that security operatives had been deployed to the affected area to prevent further violence. “Calm has been restored, and an investigation is ongoing to apprehend other fleeing suspects and ensure they face justice,” she added.
Social Media Reactions: Fear and Outrage
News of the cult clash has sparked widespread reactions on social media, with many residents of Rivers State expressing concern over the growing influence of cult groups.
On X (formerly Twitter), user @RiversEye lamented, “How long will we continue to live in fear because of cult violence? Onne, Eleme, and other parts of Rivers State are becoming unsafe. The government must act now!”
Another user, @NigerDeltaMatters, questioned the effectiveness of the security forces in tackling cultism: “Another bloody weekend in Rivers State! When will our leaders address the root causes of these cult wars? This cycle of violence must end.”
Meanwhile, on Facebook, a community activist named Wisdom Ibe called for tougher measures to curb cult-related violence. “These killings are becoming too frequent. We need strict law enforcement and community policing to prevent cult groups from holding our towns hostage,” he wrote.
Cultism and Violence: A Growing Menace in Rivers State
This latest cult-related violence adds to the growing list of deadly clashes that have plagued Rivers State in recent years. Cult groups, often linked to criminal activities such as robbery, extortion, and assassinations, have become a serious security challenge in the state.
In 2024, several communities in Rivers, including Emohua, Obio/Akpor, and Eleme, witnessed violent cult clashes that resulted in multiple deaths. Despite periodic crackdowns by security forces, the influence of these groups remains strong, with many attributing their resilience to political backing, drug trafficking, and lack of economic opportunities for young people.
Government and Community Response
Local authorities have condemned the recent killings and vowed to intensify efforts to dismantle cult networks. A security meeting involving community leaders, police officers, and government representatives has reportedly been scheduled to discuss long-term solutions to the crisis.
Speaking on the issue, a resident, Chief Emmanuel Ogolo, urged the government to adopt preventive measures rather than reactive ones. “Security forces only act after lives have been lost. We need intelligence-driven policing and engagement programs for young people to discourage them from joining these deadly groups,” he said.
Additionally, the Rivers State government is expected to announce new security strategies, including surveillance operations and a possible increase in police presence in high-risk areas.
What’s Next?
With police investigations underway and three suspects already in custody, residents of Onne and the broader Eleme Local Government Area are hoping for swift justice. However, many believe that until stronger measures are implemented, cult-related violence will continue to haunt the region.
As Rivers State grapples with the challenge of insecurity, the people’s demand for peace remains clear: end the reign of cult terror, bring perpetrators to justice, and restore safety to affected communities.
