Fresh violence has erupted in Yakurr Local Government Area of Cross River State, where a young man from Mkpani community was brutally attacked and inflicted with deep machete cuts by suspected cult members.
The victim, whose identity had yet to be confirmed as of press time, was reportedly ambushed on Wednesday in what residents described as part of a growing wave of cult-related and drug-fueled attacks plaguing the area.
The incident adds to a series of violent clashes that have rocked Yakurr communities, including Ugep, the local government headquarters.
On October 30, 2025, one Mr. Felix Ebri Inah was similarly attacked and left with severe machete wounds in what residents called the same “signature style” assault.
According to locals, the frequency and brutality of the attacks have spread fear across the LGA, with rival cult groups allegedly engaging in deadly turf wars linked to drug trafficking.
Barely two weeks ago, a woman and her daughter were hit by stray bullets during a shootout between suspected members of the Bagga confraternity in Ugep, sparking outrage among residents.
In a statement from Calabar, Chief Okoi Obono-Obla, a traditional leader in Ugep and former presidential aide, expressed deep concern over the escalating violence and alleged that some government officials in Yakurr may have ties to the cult groups.
He described the development as “a shocking breach of public trust,” urging security agencies to investigate and rid the system of criminal infiltration.
“How can individuals suspected of enabling violence be entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding peace?” Obono-Obla asked.
The lawyer and community leader said he has petitioned the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, and other relevant authorities to intervene before the crisis spirals out of control.
“Boko Haram started as a low-grade group of political thugs before evolving into a terrorist organization.
The government must act swiftly to prevent a similar outcome in Yakurr,” he warned.
Reacting to the development, Chairman of Yakurr Local Government, Hon. Yibala Igiri Inyang, said security agencies have intensified operations in the affected areas and that investigations into the attacks are ongoing.