By Erewunmi Peace

A fragile peace was shattered in Benin City, Edo State, this week as a renewed outbreak of cult-related violence claimed the lives of six individuals in just two days. The killings mark a disturbing return to bloodshed after nearly two months of relative calm in the state capital.

The violent clashes, which began on Monday and spilled into Tuesday, were reportedly between rival cult groups—Maphite and Black Axe (Aye). The victims were killed in broad daylight at different locations across Benin, including Oza Street, Wire Road, Ewah Road, Oroghene Street, and Textile Mill Road.

Among the deceased are individuals identified as Lucky Okotie, Yoyin, George (a mechanic), and Abel, along with two others whose names were yet to be confirmed as of press time.

Eyewitnesses recounted scenes of panic as armed men on motorcycles stormed neighborhoods, targeting suspected rival members. Several residents have since fled affected areas, fearing further attacks.

The Edo State Police Command is yet to issue an official statement, but security sources confirmed the killings and noted that surveillance and patrols have been intensified in the hotspots.

This resurgence of cult violence has reignited concerns about public safety and the state’s lingering battle with gang-related activities. Local authorities had earlier celebrated a two-month break in cult clashes after increased security operations and community dialogue, but this week’s killings suggest that tensions were merely dormant, not resolved.

Civil society groups are now calling on the government to move beyond reactionary measures and invest in long-term youth engagement, deradicalization programs, and stricter enforcement of anti-cult laws.