Journalist, Vigilante Commander Killed In Renewed Cult War

In what appears like a renewed cult war, suspected cultists Thursday night killed a Benin City-based cinematographer and presenter at Independent Television (ITV), Mr Hilary Odia.

Odia was reportedly shot dead on Christmas Eve while drinking in Esigie street, Oredo local government area of Edo state.

Also gunmen were also said to have ambushed and killed a vigilante commander in the area.

The vigilante, who was simply identified as Osasu, was reportedly killed at Iyobosa Street in the locality.

It was  gathered that two other persons were shot dead at Nekpen-nekpen and Uwa Street respectively.

The attacks are believed to be a reprisal fight between members of Eiye and Black axe confraternity groups.

Besides, it was observed that the killings sent palpable fear to residents of second and third circular areas on Monday; as they marked a low-key Christmas.

The development it was learnt came one week after gunmen reportedly stormed a resident at Okiso quarters near Third East Circular and killed the mother of their “target”.

It was gathered that the gunmen became enraged after they could not find the “target”.

But a source within the police said only two persons were killed; while one who sustained injuries is currently receiving treatment at the hospital.

The source added that the fight was a reprisal attack by rival cults over last week’s killing.

Reacting, spokesperson for Edo State police command, SP Chidi Nwanbuzor confirmed the incident, but said he is yet to get full detail of the incident.