Authorities and community leaders in Efurun, Delta State, are seeking information on the whereabouts of Mrs Faith Egboyen, a resident of Okito Street, after her husband was killed in an incident believed to be linked to cult‑related violence, residents and police said.
According to the Police and local sources, the alarm was raised after armed men reportedly broke into the home of Mr Frank Egboyen, a furniture maker, in the early hours of 24 February 2025. The assailants demanded to know why Mr Egboyen had allegedly failed to return monies believed to be proceeds from business dealings.
Mr Egboyen was found dead inside the property, which was set on fire during the confrontation. Residents who arrived at the scene said they heard a gunshot and later discovered the house engulfed in flames with Mr Egboyen’s body inside.
“The house was already on fire and when we rushed in, his body was lifeless,” a source in the community said, asking not to be named. Local leaders believe the violence may be connected to cult disputes, though no formal confirmation has been made by police.
Mrs Egboyen, who lived with her husband at the address, was not found at the scene. Community members said she fled during the attack. Police confirmed they are looking for her to assist with their investigation, but have not labelled her a suspect.
According to neighbours, Mrs Egboyen raised concerns about her husband’s behaviour after their marriage on 20 April 2019, telling relatives she had observed “strange behaviour” and later believed he was linked to a cult group. The allegations have not been independently verified and police have not released details on any cult affiliation.
The Efurun community has since petitioned local authorities, urging a more robust response to rising insecurity.
“People are worried and we want assurance that those behind the killing will be brought to justice,” a community leader said.
The Delta State Police Command did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the status of the investigation or any arrests in connection with Mr Egboyen’s death. No charges have been filed and officers said inquiries are ongoing.
Cult‑related violence has been reported in parts of southern Nigeria, often tied to disputes over local influence and criminal activities, although the exact motive in the Efurun case remains under investigation.