The Edo State Police Command has launched a widespread manhunt for those behind the killing of a student from the University of Benin (UNIBEN).

The victim, identified as a final-year student, was reportedly targeted in what eyewitnesses describe as a suspected cult-related attack near the university’s vicinity over the weekend.

The incident occurred during the late evening hours when gunmen intercepted the student and opened fire, causing panic among residents and fellow students in the area.

Emergency responders arrived shortly after the gunmen fled, but the victim was tragically pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. The brazen nature of the attack has heightened security concerns within the university community, especially for those residing off-campus.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Chidi Nwabuzor, confirmed the incident and stated that the Commissioner of Police has ordered an immediate and thorough investigation. He assured the public that the command is following useful leads and is working closely with the university’s internal security apparatus to identify and apprehend the suspects.

The police have also increased patrols around major student residential hubs to prevent any potential retaliatory violence.

In the wake of the killing, the UNIBEN management has issued a statement condemning the act and appealing for calm among the student body. The university authorities urged students to remain vigilant and report any suspicious movements to the security units, emphasizing that the safety of the campus community remains a top priority. They also expressed their condolences to the family of the deceased, promising to provide necessary support during the investigation.

Tension remains high in the Ugbowo and Ekenwan axes of Benin City, as students have expressed frustration over the recurring issue of insecurity and cult-related activities. Many are calling for a more permanent security presence and more robust intelligence gathering to forestall such tragedies.

Human rights groups have also weighed in, urging the police to ensure that the investigation is not transparent and that the actual culprits are brought to justice without delay.

As the manhunt continues, the police have called on members of the public who may have witnessed the incident or possess relevant information to come forward. The command emphasized that the fight against cultism and violent crime requires the collective effort of the community, promising to protect the identity of any whistleblowers.