Residents of Awka, the Anambra State capital, were thrown into panic on Sunday following separate shooting incidents that left three people dead, including a popular comedian and town crier.
The first attack occurred in the Amaenyi area, a densely populated part of the city, where two men were reportedly shot dead. The incident caused widespread panic among residents, with people said to have fled the area in a stampede. Several persons reportedly sustained injuries during the rush to escape.
Hours later, another shooting was reported along SM Okeke Street, where Mr Aiza Nwosu, a well-known comedian and town crier, was killed.
Nwosu was reportedly driving through the area while carrying out his usual activities when he came under attack. He was known across Awka for using a Hilux truck equipped with loudspeakers to make public announcements, play music and entertain residents as he moved around the city.
According to reports by Daily Post, Nwosu was driving along SM Okeke Street with music playing from his vehicle when gunmen allegedly opened fire on him. The attackers were said to have been following him in a Toyota Corolla with tinted windows.
Nwosu reportedly died inside the vehicle, while the music continued playing. His vehicle later veered off the road and ended up in a ditch.
The circumstances surrounding the killing have generated further concern among residents, particularly because sources claimed that Nwosu had no known history of involvement with cult groups. However, some sources alleged that his son was a member of the Vikings Confraternity.
The suspected involvement of cultists has heightened concerns over the security situation in Awka, which has experienced violent clashes between rival cult groups over the years.
The latest killings have therefore renewed fears that cult-related violence could once again be gaining ground in the city.
As of the time of filing this report, the Anambra State Police Command had not released an official statement confirming the circumstances of the killings or identifying those responsible.
Residents have consequently called on security agencies to intensify surveillance across the city, investigate the attacks and apprehend those behind the violence before further lives are lost.
The incidents have left many residents concerned about their safety and the possibility of renewed violence in parts of the state capital.
