Cult War: Four Persons Shot by Gunmen at Nawfia

By Praise Chinecherem

Four persons were on Sunday evening murdered in a cult clash at Nawfia community in Njikoka Local Government Area of Anambra state.

The incident was said to have occured near the popular Afor market junction.

“The men just arrived Afor market junction and opened fire, killing a lot of people. I have not been able to get the details,” a source said.

Police spokesperson, Tochukwu Ikenga has confirmed the incident, describing it as cult-related attack.

He said preliminary information had provided useful leads, assuring efforts were on to arrest the perpetrators.

He said, “Anambra State Police Command wishes to provide a comprehensive update on the cult-related attack that occurred on the evening of December 7, 2025 at Afor Nawfia Market, along the Onitsha–Awka Old Road.

“It will be recalled that operatives of the Command attached to the Special Anti-Cult Squad, Enugwu-Ukwu, had, four days earlier, acting on credible intelligence about a planned rival cult confrontation, arrested two dangerous suspects and recovered a firearm from them.

“The arrested suspects have been assisting the Police with valuable information aimed at preventing further cult-related violence within Awka and its environs.

“Despite these proactive efforts by the Command operatives, some members of the same gang, on the evening of 7th December 2025, operating in a black Lexus Jeep with registration number yet unknown, stormed Afor Nawfia Market and opened fire indiscriminately.

“The violent attack resulted in the fatal injury of four persons, after which the assailants fled the scene.

“Although the hoodlums escaped before police arrival, preliminary information obtained at the scene has provided useful leads, and the Command is already acting on them to ensure the perpetrators are tracked down and arrested.

“The Anambra State Police Command remains resolute in its determination to rid the State of cultism, violent crime, and all forms of criminality. Further developments will be communicated as investigations progress.”

Also confirming the incident, President General of Nawfia Progressive Union, Chief Daniel Okoye called for calm and vigilance from his people.

He said: “This evening, I received with deep shock the tragic news of an attack at the Afor Market Junction in Nawfia Community.

“The incident resulted in multiple casualties, caused by unknown assailants who carried out this senseless act of violence.

“I strongly condemn this heartbreaking incident and the attempt to disrupt the peace of our beloved community. I have already contacted the relevant security agencies, and investigations are underway to uncover those responsible.

“I appeal to all Ndi Nawfia to remain calm, stay vigilant, and continue to cooperate with security operatives as they work tirelessly to restore normalcy and ensure our safety.

“My thoughts and prayers are with the families affected. On behalf of the Nawfia Progressive Union,

“I extend our deepest sympathies and assure you that we are fully committed to supporting efforts aimed at protecting lives and maintaining peace in Nawfia.”