Three youths have reportedly been killed while five others sustained injuries after violence erupted during the annual traditional festival in Eku community, Ethiope East Local Government Area of Delta State.
The incident occurred on Monday night, sparking tension in the community as photographs and videos said to show the aftermath circulated on social media.
Sources in the Urhobo community told journalists that the violence may have stemmed from an alleged supremacy dispute between rival groups over territorial influence.
However, it could not be independently established whether the victims belonged to any of the groups or whether the incident was related to a cult clash.
According to eyewitness accounts, residents were still participating in the festival at drinking spots around Osuere, described as the geographical centre of the community, when a phone call reportedly triggered the violence.
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One of those attending the gathering was said to have received information that a member of his group had been shot at another location.
The man reportedly rushed to his vehicle, brought out a pump-action rifle and allegedly opened fire on three youths at different locations without first verifying the information.
Sources also claimed that one of the deceased was later found with a cutlass injury to the neck.
Meanwhile, about five other people were reportedly taken to hospitals within the local government area after sustaining deep cut injuries during the festival.
A resident, identified as Kenneth, explained that cutlasses are traditionally used as part of the festival celebrations, but disagreements during the event can sometimes result in injuries.
“We dance with cutlasses during the festival and sometimes use them on ourselves. If you cut someone with a cutlass and the injury is serious, the person may retaliate. That was how some people sustained injuries and were taken to hospital,” he said.
The community was reportedly calm as of press time, although some youths were said to have temporarily left the area before the arrival of security personnel.
A source said some residents may have fled out of fear of possible arrests, stressing that their departure did not necessarily indicate involvement in the incident.
Security operatives subsequently moved into the community to restore calm and prevent further violence.
