In a tragic turn of events, seven individuals have been reported dead following a fierce clash between rival cult groups in the North Bank suburb of Makurdi, Benue State.

Eyewitnesses described the severity of the clash, which led to the closure of nearby markets out of fear for safety. The confrontation is said to have erupted between the notorious Black Axe and Red Axe cult groups.

According to Cibilus Odinaka, chairman of the North Bank market, the violence ignited when one of the rival members was harassed while attempting to access goods in the market. Retaliatory attacks quickly escalated the situation, resulting in the loss of six lives over the weekend, with one more casualty reported on Monday.

Despite the proximity of military barracks, the presence of security forces failed to deter the bloodshed. Nura Umah, a leader of a local vigilance group, lamented the brazenness of the cultists, revealing that even a commercial motorcyclist fell victim to the violence.

Security personnel have since been deployed to the area, with the state Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, confirming ongoing investigations into the incident.