Gunfire Rocks Rivers University as Rival Cult Groups Clash During Carnival

Tension erupted at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education in Rumuolumeni, Rivers State, on Tuesday after gunshots rang out on campus during the institution’s Jean Carnival.

The incident sent students and other members of the university community scrambling for safety as rival cult groups allegedly clashed over control of the campus.

Sources within the university told newsmen that the confrontation involved members of the KKK and Vikings confraternities.

Although no death was recorded, the incident has raised fresh concerns about the growing threat of cult-related violence in Nigerian tertiary institutions.

Rival groups allegedly brought in outsiders

Sources said both groups allegedly mobilised members from outside the university ahead of the confrontation.

The clash was reportedly linked to a struggle for territorial influence, with the rival groups allegedly seeking to establish dominance within the university environment.

The latest incident also represents a shift from previous clashes involving suspected members of the Vikings and Black Axe confraternities, which have reportedly occurred on the campus over the years.

The university has witnessed several cult-related confrontations in recent years. One of the most serious incidents occurred on August 12, 2024, when suspected members of the Black Axe and Vikings groups reportedly clashed, leaving a student in a coma.

Police restore calm

The Rivers State Police Command confirmed the latest incident, saying officers responded quickly and brought the situation under control.

Police spokesperson, ASP Agabe Blessing Kaborlo, said the confrontation was between two suspected cult groups and that no lives were lost.

According to her, the police did not fire any shots during the operation, but officers took proportionate measures to contain the situation and prevent further escalation.

She said members of the groups fled the scene following the police intervention, while investigations are ongoing to identify and arrest those involved.

The incident has renewed calls for stronger security measures around tertiary institutions, particularly during major campus events, to prevent cult clashes from putting students and staff at risk.