The family of Julius Okpor, a 300-level student of Computer Science at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Rumuolumeni, is demanding a full investigation into his killing, firmly rejecting reports that the 25-year-old was involved in cult activities.
Julius was shot dead on Saturday, July 19, during what police described as a suspected cult clash in Rumuolumeni, Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State. But his family insists he was an innocent victim—not a cultist, but a responsible student and respected member of his community.
Speaking to journalists in Port Harcourt on Tuesday evening, the deceased’s elder brother, Ambrose Okpor, gave a heart-wrenching account of the incident and appealed to the police to uncover the truth and bring the killers to justice.
“My brother was never a cultist. He lived a peaceful life and had no criminal record. He was kind, responsible, and served as the caretaker of his residence. Everyone on Cevelia Street spoke well of him,” Ambrose said.
He recounted receiving a distress call from Julius’s friend around 9 p.m., alerting him that his brother had been shot and was lying critically wounded on the street.
“By the time I arrived at the scene, there were policemen and OSPAC (a local vigilante group), but Julius had already died. We took his body to the Military Hospital along Aba Road—not to UPTH as reported by police,” he clarified.
The family has expressed concern over misinformation being circulated, particularly the labeling of Julius as a cultist, which they say undermines his memory and distorts the facts surrounding his death.
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“We will not let this slide,” Ambrose said firmly. “He was not involved in any cult. He was a promising young man with a bright future. We want the Nigeria Police to conduct a thorough investigation and ensure that justice is served.”
The tragic killing has drawn renewed attention to the insecurity and rise in violent crime in and around tertiary institutions in Rivers State.
Students and residents of Rumuolumeni have since called for increased patrols, early interventions, and improved safety measures on and off campus.
As of press time, the Rivers State Police Command has yet to release further details or respond to the family’s claims.