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There was a violent clash in Obelle community on Sunday between two rival cult groups, Deybam and Icelanders, over control of money from an oil company in the area. It followed a killing on Wednesday when members of one group were attacked, prompting their rivals to seek revenge.
A local resident, who identified himself as Kingsley, explained that after the Wednesday killings, the group that lost members began attacking the relatives of those believed to be involved in the deaths. Shortly after, the rival group returned, and both sides exchanged gunfire. In total, 19 people were reported dead, including both cult members and innocent bystanders.
Kingsley called for help from the government, stating that the violence was tearing the community apart and urging the police and army to intervene.
The state police spokesperson, Grace Iringe-Koko, confirmed the incident, clarifying that the fighting was linked to disputes over oil company levies. She confirmed that 10 people had died, but no arrests had been made yet as the investigation continues.
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