Gunshots as rival cultists clash at Rivers varsity

On Monday, a fierce confrontation erupted between rival cult groups at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rumuolumeni, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. Unverified reports suggested that the clash was between two factions known as the Vikings and Clansmen, as they vied for dominance within the institution. While the exact trigger remains unclear, the violence erupted during the university's ongoing Students' Union Government Week.

A video circulating on social media captured the chaotic scene, with students fleeing in terror as gunfire rang out across the campus. Thankfully, no casualties were reported. Subsequently, normal academic activities were momentarily suspended as many students evacuated the campus or sought refuge in classrooms and hostels to evade stray bullets.

Charles Jaja, a Port Harcourt-based rights activist, expressed concern over the incident. He stated that the clash indicated the university's management had lost control over the campus, emphasizing that such a situation is unacceptable in a higher education setting. Jaja urged the university authorities to take decisive action and learn from the effective strategies employed at Rivers State University under the leadership of Prof. Barineme Fakae.

Prince Wiro, a rights activist and National Coordinator at the Centre for Basic Rights Protection and Accountability Campaign, also commented on the incident. He highlighted the repeated instances of cult clashes in and around the university in the past year, expressing worry over the declining security arrangements within the institution. Wiro called on the state governor to intervene and engage with university leadership to address the security concerns.

The state police command confirmed that the clash was between two rival cult groups on campus. Assistant Superintendent of Police Blessing Agabe assured that the police were quick to respond to the distress call and swiftly restored order. She emphasized that no shots were fired by the officers, who only took necessary measures to contain the situation. None of the incidents resulted in casualties, although the groups fled the scene, and an ongoing investigation was underway to identify and apprehend those involved.