Gunshots as rival cult groups clash at Rivers varsity

Gunshots erupted at Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rumuolumeni, close to Port Harcourt, Rivers State, on Tuesday. The campus witnessed a violent clash between students belonging to rival cult groups - KK Klans and Vikings confraternities - during the institution’s Jean Carnival. The confrontation took place as students sought to ensure their safety amid the gunfire.

The incident has reignited fears over cult-related violence in educational institutions and the urgent need for more robust safety measures to safeguard students and staff. Although no lives were claimed during the shootout, sources within the campus revealed that the clash shifted from the frequent confrontations between suspected Vikings and Black Axe members to a rivalry between the Vikings and KKK groups.

Both factions allegedly invited "foreign" members, who were cult members from outside the university, ahead of the clash. Such territorial control over the campus environment appears to be the motive behind the confrontation. The latest incident has come amid a series of recurring cult-related clashes on the university campus over the past two years.

Notably, on August 12, 2024, suspected members of the Black Axe and Vikings cult groups reportedly clashed, leaving a student in a coma. The Police spokesperson in Rivers State, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, confirmed the incident and stated that the situation was under control. She added that no shots were fired by the Police as they arrived promptly to contain and arrest the situation, ensuring no lives were lost. Police are still investigating to identify and apprehend those involved.