By Omowumi Omotosho
The annual 7/7 celebration, known for its clandestine initiation rituals and fierce supremacy battles among cult groups, has left a trail of death and arrests across Nigeria this year. At least nine fatalities have been reported, with numerous arrests made in a wide security crackdown.
In Kwara State, a joint operation involving the police command and members of the State Community Policy Advisory Council resulted in the apprehension of over 30 suspects at various black spots.
These individuals were initially detained and subsequently released after screening. Discrepancies emerged when the state police command initially denied making any arrests, while the community policing initiative confirmed detaining 30 suspects. Observers noted heightened police presence and extensive searches of motorists, particularly those with suspicious passengers, in key urban areas.
Tensions escalated in the days preceding the festival, marked by deadly clashes between rival gangs.
Police spokesperson Toun Ejire-Adeyemi reported on Monday evening that no arrests had been made in connection with the ongoing special operation launched since Sunday, set to extend throughout the week.
However, Monday and Tuesday witnessed a series of violent incidents across the country.
In Lagos State’s Ijanikin area, a figure known as Hitman fell victim to an ambush by rival cult members on Sunday night. In Abia State, a former chairman of the Aye cult group, identified as Nonso Ewuzie, was killed by a joint task force.
Meanwhile, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Peter Ekpeowo reportedly met his end at the hands of alleged Aye members. In Anambra State, a rival group allegedly targeted and killed, a member of Aye, identified as Apparatus in Amikwo. Another individual, Odinaka, allegedly affiliated with Aye, met a similar fate in Awka.
In Imo State, heightened security measures were implemented following clashes between the Aye and Vikings cult groups, triggered by the fatal shooting of a rival gang member on MCC Road. Earlier incidents near Imo State University claimed the lives of three suspected cultists.
The university administration issued a statement urging students to steer clear of crowded gatherings on campus. The state police command responded by deploying a specialized unit to urban and rural areas to suppress suspected cult activities. Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) ASP Henry Okoye disclosed that Commissioner of Police Aboki Danjuma authorized the deployment to address the escalating cult-related violence.
The recent surge in violence during the 7/7 celebrations underscores the profound societal impact of cult activities and the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in maintaining public safety.
