Tragedy struck in Oko, Orumba North Local Government Area of Anambra State, over the weekend, as the CEO of Legit Wine & Dine, a well-known beer parlour in the area, was assassinated by suspected cultists. The victim, whose name is yet to be officially released, was ambushed and shot dead near Federal Polytechnic Oko.
According to eyewitnesses, the incident happened around 7 p.m. on Saturday, opposite Glamour Pizza shop, a busy spot within the community. The victim was reportedly driving a Lexus vehicle when he was attacked by a group of armed men.
“He was just driving when they suddenly blocked him, shot him twice in the chest, and sped off,” one eyewitness told reporters. “It happened so fast. Everyone was shocked.”
A viral video from the scene showed the lifeless body of the man slumped in his car, while concerned residents gathered around in disbelief and fear. The killing has sent shockwaves through the Oko community, known for its vibrant student population due to the presence of the Federal Polytechnic.
Confirming the incident, the Anambra State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Tochukwu Ikenga, described the killing as cult-related. He added that the swift response of police officers led to the arrest of one suspect, who is currently being interrogated.
“It was a cult-related killing,” SP Ikenga said. “Following the swift response of the police operatives led by the DPO, one suspect was arrested and is currently undergoing interrogation.”
Ikenga also confirmed that the victim’s vehicle was recovered from the scene and that his body has been deposited in the morgue. He assured the public that the police are actively investigating the case and will share updates as progress is made.
Although the full motive behind the killing is yet to be officially confirmed, locals suspect the incident may be linked to a recent rise in cult-related violence in Anambra and other parts of the South-East. The state has in recent times witnessed a number of killings attributed to cult clashes and criminal gangs targeting business owners, students, and community leaders.
Security experts say cult groups have continued to cause chaos in various towns, often operating with small arms and attacking their targets in broad daylight. These groups, sometimes with political backing or territorial interests, are known to disrupt public peace and instill fear in residents.
The killing of the Legit Wine & Dine boss has now sparked fresh calls from the community for urgent action. Local residents are demanding increased security presence in Oko and its surroundings, especially at night, to protect lives and property.
“We can’t continue living in fear,” a shop owner near the scene said. “This town used to be peaceful. Now everyone is scared, especially business owners.”
In response to the growing concerns, the Anambra State Police Command has promised to intensify surveillance and patrol operations in the area.
“We understand the concerns of the people,” SP Ikenga said. “Our officers are on the ground, and we are working to ensure that those behind this crime and others like it are arrested and brought to justice.”
Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration has repeatedly expressed commitment to fighting insecurity in the state, but the persistence of cult-related killings poses a major challenge to those efforts.
As investigations continue, many in the Oko community are mourning the loss of a man described as friendly, hardworking, and a strong supporter of local development. His popular establishment, Legit Wine & Dine, had become a hub for relaxation and entertainment among both locals and students.
With the suspect now in custody, residents are hopeful that justice will be served swiftly and that the case will mark a turning point in the state’s fight against cultism and violent crime.
