A yet-to-be-ascertained number of people have been reported dead in a shooting spree on Thursday in Awka, the capital of Anambra State.
Reports obtained by Naija News revealed that the shooting incident started around 9:00 AM today, resulting in multiple fatalities.
A student who witnessed the event told newsmen that the shooting took place in Ifite Awka.
Ifite Awka is primarily populated by students from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka.
The witness suggested that the shooting might be linked to cult activities.
Naija News reports that the latest incident comes just a few days following the killing of at least 12 individuals during a shooting related to cult violence in Nibo, a nearby town.
According to Daily Post, another source indicated that the shooting on Thursday transpired in Ifite, near the back gate of Unizik, Awka, not far from Amansea Road.
One witness stated, “Gunmen shot a man just moments ago in Ifite, Awka. He is lying dead.”
Additionally, a lecturer reported seeing seven deceased individuals in the vicinity and had to abandon her journey to school due to the situation.
The precise number of victims from the shooting remains unclear; however, Tochukwu Ikenga, the State Police Public Relations Officer, did not confirm the incident but mentioned that a police response team has arrived at the scene and further information will be provided soon.
In a separate statement, Ikenga noted that the command had intercepted videos and audio recordings of individuals who were planning to incite violence in Awka.
He said: “Anambra State Police Command begins investigation on some intercepted videos and voice notes on social media space threatening violence in the state.
“The Police Command not taking those clips for granted and saddled with the responsibility of maintaining law and order shall live up to its mandate of ensuring that no person or group of persons is allowed to infringe on the fundamental human rights of others.
“Given the above, Police and Other Security Forces have intensified patrols, and improved security dominance and surveillance to enforce the law, maintain Public Order, Public Safety and other Support Services in the State.”