Suspected cult gunmen have shot dead Chief Ikwuka Okoye, the President‑General of the Ogidi community in Idemili North Local Government Area, along with another man during a violent attack on Friday evening.
Gatekeepers News reports that the shootings occurred at the Ogidi School Field, a frequently used public space in the town, as armed men believed to be members of a rival cult group opened fire in what local sources say was retaliation for the recent capture and killing of a known cultist in the community.
Okoye had been actively involved in efforts to curb violent crime and cult activities in Ogidi before the incident. Residents told reporters that the gunmen stormed the area and immediately began shooting, killing Okoye and the other victim, who witnesses say was with him at the time.
The Anambra State Police Command confirmed the attack in a statement released on Saturday. The police linked the killings to tensions following the arrest and death of a notorious cult member and said they have secured the scene and begun a detailed investigation.
Police spokesman SP Tochukwu Ikenga 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, … is allegedly linked to the recent capture and killing of a known notorious cultist within the community.”
He added that officers are working with eyewitness accounts and other intelligence to identify and arrest those responsible, and urged residents to remain calm and assist law enforcement as investigations continue.
The attack has stirred shock and concern among Ogidi residents and local leaders, who have condemned the violence and called for justice and stronger security measures.
