Awka, Anambra State – October 26, 2024: A shooting rampage in Ifite Awka, near Nnamdi Azikiwe University, claimed several lives on Thursday morning. The incident, which occurred around 9:15 a.m., was reported by eyewitnesses who suggest the attack may be linked to cult-related activities.
Ifite Awka, a student-dominated area, was thrown into chaos when gunmen opened fire. One source, a student, recounted the scene, stating, “Gunmen just shot a guy a few minutes ago at Ifite. He’s lying lifeless.”
A lecturer also reported seeing seven bodies in the area, causing her to abandon her scheduled lectures at the university.
The exact number of casualties remains unclear, but the shooting happened near the back gate of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, close to Amansea Road. This comes just days after a separate cult-related shooting in nearby Nibo claimed 12 lives.
Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer, Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed that police teams had taken control of the scene but did not provide further details about the number of victims. He assured that more information would be released following a thorough investigation.
In a related statement, Ikenga disclosed that the police had intercepted videos and voice notes suggesting plans for further violence in Awka. “The Anambra State Police Command has begun an investigation into intercepted social media clips threatening violence in the state,” Ikenga said. He emphasized that security forces have intensified patrols and surveillance to maintain law and order.