Gunmen kill Ogidi community leader in suspected cult clash in Anambra

Tragedy struck Ogidi community in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State after unidentified gunmen, suspected to be cult members, shot and killed the President-General of the town, Ikwuka Okoye, popularly known as Anumili.

The attack reportedly occurred late Friday at the School Field in Ogidi, sending shockwaves through residents and throwing the community into mourning.

Sources said the assailants, believed to belong to a rival cult group, carried out the assault in what appears to be a revenge-driven incident. The attack was allegedly linked to the earlier arrest and killing of their group leader by local security operatives.

Another man, whose identity has not yet been confirmed, was also killed during the incident.

Some eyewitnesses in the area said the incident has sparked outrage in the community, with residents and officials condemning the killing, adding that the deceased leader was duly elected.

One of the sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said, “Daredevil gunmen invaded our community last night. By the time they were done, the town’s President-General, Sir Ikwuka Okoye, and another victim, who happened to be his relative, lay dead on the floor.

“The incident happened at the School Field, Ogidi. The PG and a relation from the same village, who was in his company, were shot dead by gunmen suspected to be cultists on Friday evening.”

The spokesman for the Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, confirmed the incident in a press statement on Saturday.

Ikenga said the incident is allegedly linked to the recent capture and killing of a known notorious cultist within the community.

He said, “The Anambra State Police Command regrets the murder of the President-General of the Ogidi community and one other person. The incident, which occurred on the evening of February 6, 2026, at the School Field, Ogidi, is allegedly linked to the recent capture and killing of a known notorious cultist within the community.

“Following the report, police operatives swiftly took over the scene of the incident and commenced investigations. The command is currently working with eyewitness accounts and other available intelligence to identify and arrest the perpetrators.

“The Anambra State Police Command assures members of the public that all efforts are being intensified to bring those responsible to justice.

“Residents are urged to remain calm and cooperate with the police as investigations continue.

“Further developments will be communicated in due course.