RIVERS: Police arrest suspect after Cult clash at University

Reports indicate that the altercation involved suspected members of the Vikings and Black Axe confraternities, who were allegedly fighting for territorial control on campus.

The confrontation, which resulted in gunfire, is believed to stem from an ongoing rivalry dating back to 2024, when both groups reportedly clashed in a supremacy battle that led to an attack on an executive member of the Aye confraternity.

Monday’s shooting is suspected to be a retaliatory attack. However, security personnel at the university apprehended one of the alleged cultists, who was reportedly found in possession of a Beretta pistol.

The incident triggered panic among students, many of whom fled for safety. The suspect was initially taken to the Rumulomeni Police Division in Iwofe and was later transferred to the Anti-Cultism Unit at the Rivers State Police Command headquarters.

A viral video circulating online captured the chaos, showing a female student screaming as an armed individual was seen chasing others on campus.

When contacted, the spokesperson for the State Police Command, Superintendent Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the arrest and said that investigations are ongoing.

“Yes, I can confirm the incident. One suspect is in police custody, and investigation is ongoing,” she stated. “Adequate security measures have been put in place to maintain law and order. Normalcy has returned to the area.”