Residents of No. 22B Omoruyi Street in Benin City have been gripped by fear after suspected members of the Reformed Ogboni Fraternity allegedly assaulted a family of five in their home.
The attack, which occurred on May 19, was reportedly led by a senior member of the group, who stormed the residence of Mr. Osamwonyi Martins Oghagbon and physically assaulted him and his family.
Mr. Oghagbon, the eldest son of the late Pa. Anthony Oghagbon, said to have been a member of the Reformed Ogboni Fraternity before his death in December 2024 was allegedly targeted after refusing to succeed his father in the group.
Eyewitnesses said the suspects, numbering four, dragged Mr. Oghagbon out of his apartment and beat him in the presence of his wife and three children.
Attempts by the family to intervene reportedly resulted in the assailants shoving his wife and children to the ground.
Neighbours later intervened and rescued the victim from further assault. The family has since gone into hiding for fear of renewed attacks.
Sources said the conflict began after the cult group wrote to Mr. Oghagbon, demanding that he take up his late father’s position in the fraternity, a request he rejected on religious grounds.
Before the attack, the victim, described as a devoted Christian, reportedly lodged a complaint at a nearby police station, citing threats to his life.
Residents of the area have called on security agencies to ensure justice and prevent further intimidation.
As of press time, police authorities in Benin were yet to issue an official statement on the incident.