FROM ONYEKACHUKWU MELUWA , Yenagoa
Graduate of the Federal University, Otuoke, FUO, identified simply as Mark, was shot dead by gunmen suspected to be cultists in Ogbia Local Government Area of Bayelsa State Friday night.
The killing occurred during a violent clash between rival cult groups within the university host community.
The deceased, who had graduated a few years ago, reportedly ran a laundry business and an online venture in Otuoke.
His death has sent shockwaves through the community, raising concerns over rising cult-related violence in the state.
Sources said the attack resulted from a confrontation between two notorious cult groups, the Neo Black Movement, popularly known as Black Axe, and the Vikings.
Mark was allegedly shot in the stomach during the crossfire.
Efforts by friends and sympathisers to rush him to a nearby hospital for urgent medical attention were reportedly unsuccessful, as he died en route to receiving care.
Investigations suggest that Mark was not the intended target. Eyewitnesses said the assailants initially failed to locate the.victom, but shot him after spotting him nearby.
A source explained that “these armed boys could not find their target. When they later saw Mark, they shot him. While his friends were rushing him to the hospital, their vehicle hit a speed bump, which caused an accident.”
Friends described Mark as calm, friendly, and peace-loving.
They said he avoided trouble and focused on legitimate business ventures rather than joining cult activities.
One friend said “he was always smiling and minded his business. He was more focused on making money and was not actively involved in cult activities”.
Another friend added that, “Mark often advised others against cultism and was not a known member of any group.
“Some Vikings members had advised him to leave the area, but he stayed because of his girlfriend”, the friend disclosed.
Our correspondent gathered that the community is still in shock, with residents appealing for increased security and stronger measures to prevent cult-related violence.
Cnfirming the incident, Bayelsa State police spokesman, DSP Musa Muhammad said the police had launched a discreet and thorough investigation to unravel the circumstances surrounding the killing and bring the perpetrators to justice.
Authorities urged residents to cooperate with security agencies and report any suspicious activities, warning that cult violence would not be tolerated in Bayelsa State.
