Rival Cultists Clash at Rivers Varsity, Students Flee
Tension erupted at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rumuolumeni, Rivers State, after suspected members of rival cult groups exchanged gunfire on Monday.
The incident reportedly involved members of the Vikings and Clansmen confraternities, who were said to have engaged in a supremacy battle on the university campus. The immediate trigger for the confrontation remains unclear.
The clash occurred during the university’s ongoing Students’ Union Government Week, causing panic among students. Videos circulating online showed students running for safety as gunshots were heard.
Academic activities were temporarily disrupted as some students left the campus, while others reportedly sought shelter in classrooms and hostels. No death or injury was reported.
Rights activists have expressed concern over the incident, with Charles Jaja describing the development as a sign that stronger security measures are needed on the campus. He called for improved intelligence gathering, stricter enforcement of university rules and swift sanctions against students involved in cult-related activities.
Another activist, Prince Wiro, said the latest incident was particularly worrying because of reports of previous cult clashes around the institution. He urged the Rivers State Government and university management to review the security arrangements on campus to reassure students and parents.
The Rivers State Police Command confirmed that the incident involved rival cult groups. Police spokesperson ASP Blessing Agabe said officers responded quickly to a distress call and restored calm.
Agabe clarified that the police did not fire any shots during the operation, adding that the suspected cultists fled the area as officers moved in.
She said investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest those responsible for the clash.
The police assured residents that efforts were underway to prevent a recurrence and maintain security within the university environment.
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