Ogidi burial shooting leaves four dead, 15 injured as gunmen open fire in Anambra. Police say cult clash likely behind deadly attack
Ogidi burial shooting has left four people dead and at least 15 others injured after gunmen suspected to be cultists stormed a funeral ceremony in Ezi Village, Ogidi, Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State.
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The deadly attack occurred on Thursday night while family members were performing burial rites.
Eyewitnesses said the assailants, believed to be from a rival cult group, arrived on motorcycles and opened fire on mourners without warning.
“They came in on motorcycles and started shooting at the crowd during the ceremony. Everyone fled in panic,” said a resident who requested anonymity.
The assailants quickly fled the scene, leaving behind a trail of casualties. According to residents, the gunmen appeared to be targeting specific individuals within the gathering.
Ogidi burial shooting was confirmed by the Anambra State Police Command on Friday.
Police spokesman Tochukwu Ikenga stated that operatives from Ogidi Division, led by the Divisional Police Officer, responded swiftly, restored order, and evacuated the injured to nearby hospitals.
He added, “Police recovered 16 expended cartridges as evidence. A discreet investigation has begun, and early findings suggest the violence was due to a rivalry between cult groups.”
The Commissioner of Police, Ikioye Orutugu, condemned the incident and reassured the public of the force’s commitment to eliminating cult-related violence in the state. He urged citizens to stay calm, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious activity to local authorities.
This incident adds to a growing pattern of cult-related attacks during burial ceremonies in Anambra. In January 2025, seven people — including five police officers — were killed during preparations for a funeral in
Ihiala LGA. Governor Chukwuma Soludo had placed a ₦10 million bounty for each gunman involved in that attack.
Residents have since expressed concerns over increasing insecurity at traditional ceremonies.
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Despite government efforts, the latest Ogidi burial shooting highlights the need for greater police presence and community engagement to address cult violence in rural areas.
