By Nwabueze Okonkwo
The Anambra State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of a suspected member of the Black Axe Confraternity following a deadly shootout with members of a rival group, the Eiye Confraternity, in Nkwelle-Ezunaka, Oyi Local Government Area.
According to a police source, the violent confrontation, which claimed two lives and left several others injured, stemmed from a long-standing feud between the two cult groups. Authorities say the conflict has escalated dangerously in recent months, threatening the safety of the local community.
The arrested suspect, whose name is being withheld, reportedly admitted to being a Black Axe member and made a detailed confession to the police. He identified several fellow cultists including Simon Mmadukwe, Nwachukwu Oluebube Emmanuel, Somto Ikpe, Jude Nwali, Ifeanyi Uzor, and Chibuzor Obineke. The suspect, who sustained a gunshot wound to the ankle during the clash, revealed that the Eiye group has vowed to continue the bloodshed until all Black Axe members are eliminated.
The suspect also disclosed that some of their members, fearing for their lives, have fled Anambra State, with some relocating to other parts of Nigeria, Africa, and even Europe.
When contacted, Police Public Relations Officer SP Tochukwu Ikenga said he had not yet received full details of the incident but promised to investigate. However, a senior police officer who spoke anonymously confirmed the gun battle and expressed concern over the growing fear among residents, noting that people now flee at the slightest sign of violence.
He assured that the police are actively pursuing all individuals involved in the cult war and are committed to restoring peace to the community through arrests and prosecution.
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