Two Students Feared Dead as Cult Clash Erupts During Signing-Out Celebration

A day that began with excitement and pride quickly descended into horror at Auchi Polytechnic in Edo State, where a signing-out ceremony turned violent, leaving two students feared dead.

The incident took place in the Etsako West area of the state, where graduating students had gathered to celebrate the completion of their final examinations. 

The festive mood, however, was shattered when suspected members of rival cult groups — identified as Eiye and Black Axe (popularly known as Aye) — reportedly clashed at a nearby hotel, triggering a deadly confrontation. 

Eyewitnesses said that trouble started when a stray bullet struck a Mercedes Benz said to belong to a member of one of the cult factions. What followed was a rapid escalation of hostilities, as gunfire erupted and chaos swept through the area. 

In the confusion, one student was reportedly run over by a fleeing vehicle, while another was fatally shot. Local residents described scenes of panic, with students and bystanders fleeing in all directions to escape the violence. Some hid inside buildings, while others called authorities in fear for their lives. 

Police Public Relations Officer for Edo State, Moses Yamu, confirmed the incident, stating that one fatality had been officially recorded. However, multiple eyewitness accounts suggest that two individuals may have died as a result of the clash. 

Authorities have launched an investigation into the violence, and efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible. 

The incident has sparked outrage among students and community members, who are calling for tighter security measures and a crackdown on cult-related violence in tertiary institutions across the state.