Gunfire Erupts at Rivers University Amid Cult Clash

On Monday, gunshots were exchanged at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education located in Rumuolumeni, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State, between two rival cult groups known as 'Vikings' and 'Clansmen'. The violence erupted during the university's ongoing Students’ Union Government week.

Although the immediate cause of the clash remains unclear, a viral video showed students fleeing for safety amidst the gunfire, with no casualties reported. Following the incident, academic activities were temporarily halted as students sought refuge in classrooms and hostels.

Rights activist Charles Jaja criticized the university management for losing control over campus security, calling for improved measures to combat cultism. Another activist, Prince Wiro, expressed concern over the repeated cult clashes, stating that such incidents could undermine parental confidence in the university's security and deter future enrollments.

Wiro urged the Rivers State Governor to engage with university leadership regarding the security challenges.