The Anambra State governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, commiserated with the community members and families of those slain in the Nibo community in Awka South LGA of the state on Sunday.
Speaking at Eke Market in Awka on Monday, during his routine monitoring of activities across the state, Soludo vowed to apprehend the perpetrators of this dastardly act and combat cultism in the state.
No fewer than 13 persons were reportedly killed during a cult-related clash in Nibo while the community was holding its New Yam festival on Sunday.
While urging the people to go about their lawful duties, the governor emphasised that no matter where the perpetrators hide, they will be brought to justice.
He said, “Every avoidable loss of life in Anambra shatters my heart, especially when young lives are cut short. The mindless violence between rival cults in our communities is heartbreaking.
“Yesterday’s tragic incident in Nibo, where young lives were lost, is unacceptable. We have an anti-cultism law in place, and I have ordered immediate action against those involved.
“But laws alone aren’t enough. Parents and community leaders, let’s join forces to protect our youth! We can’t sit back while our children destroy themselves.
Let’s take action at home and in our communities to end cultism. We will continue to pray for the lost souls and work towards a safer Anambra where people will live by the law and draw lessons from this avoidable tragedy.”
(PUNCH)