By Kayode Sanni-Arewa
Three biological brothers from the same mother have fallen victim to the relentless cult violent attacks in Awka, the Anambra State capital.
The latest casualty, Nonso, was killed in broad daylight on Saturday afternoon near Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University Teaching Hospital, Amaku, Awka.
According to a close family source, Nonso’s killing is linked to the murder of his younger brother, Buchi, three months ago around Mac Don Eatery’s axis.
Their eldest brother had also met a brutal end in a previous attack and the tragic loss has left their mother childless.
This latest incident brings the death toll from cult-related violence in Awka to no fewer than twenty persons in the past few weeks.
The ongoing conflict has revived painful memories of the Nibo Massacre and Ifite killings, which have left deep scars on the community. Cult killings have plagued Anambra State for years, with Awka being a hotspot.
Rival cult groups have been engaged in a deadly turf war and the resulting violence has claimed numerous lives, leaving families shattered and the community traumatized.
Anambra State Police Commissioner, Nnaghe Obono Itam, has condemned the latest killing, promising a thorough investigation and insists that the command will leave no stone unturned in apprehending the perpetrators and bringing them to justice.
Anambra State Governor, Chukwuma Soludo, has also weighed in, urging calm and reassuring citizens of increased security measures, noting that his administration is committed to restoring peace and security in Awka.
While relatives and community members throng the home of the bereaved mother of three sons to comfort her, residents are calling for urgent action to check the escalating senseless killings and restore peace to the capital city.