Our attention has been drawn to ongoing speculations and baseless allegations suggesting a political undertone to the tragic killings that occurred during the Eku Festival on September 21, 2026. We wish to state categorically, and for the avoidance of doubt, that these claims are entirely false and politically motivated fabrications designed to distort the facts. The truth of the matter is rooted strictly in a violent clash between rival cult groups, completely detached from any political agenda or affiliation:
The Origin of the Crisis: A well-known pre-festival feud existed between members of the Eiye confraternity—led by the son of Hon. Friday Odje—and members of the Arobaga cult. Prior to the festival, the leader of the Eiye group had been shot in the hand during a previous altercation.
The Escalation: Rather than allowing the law to take its course, the Eiye group elected to use the occasion of the Eku Festival to launch a retaliatory attack to settle scores with the Arobaga cult.
The Casualties: The ensuing violence was strictly a confrontation between these two rival factions. Unfortunately, members of the Neo-Black Movement (NBM) were caught in the crossfire of this supremacy battle.
Clarification on our Principal’s Vehicle: Allegations regarding the presence of our Principal’s Prado Jeep within the vicinity of the incident are equally mischievous. The vehicle was left in the custody of our Principal’s half-brother to run errands on his behalf. The said half-brother was saddled with the responsibility of entertaining our Principal’s guests. While discharging his responsibility, the Jeep developed a mechanical fault and stalled, which fully explains its presence in that area where the entertainment occurred. The vehicle was left unattended for several hours during what time members of the public had access to it.
We deeply commiserate with the families affected by this senseless violence. We urge the public to disregard the false political narratives being peddled by mischief-makers, and we call on the law enforcement agencies to thoroughly investigate this cult rivalry and bring all perpetrators to justice.
Signed:
Novwe Ikie Media Team