A new wave of panic has swept through Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, Nigeria, following a recent surge in cult-related violence. On Sunday morning, a man named Taoheed Ojoiku was killed in a clash between rival cult groups in the Ita-Olokan area of Osogbo. The incident occurred around 9:30 am and caused widespread panic among residents, who quickly sought safety.

According to eyewitnesses, Ojoiku sustained severe injuries during the attack and was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he was later confirmed dead by medical personnel. The circumstances surrounding the attack are still unclear, but sources suggest it may be linked to a previous incident on Friday, in which two people were killed and four others injured in the Owo Eba area of Ilesa Garage, Osogbo.

The Friday attack, which occurred in broad daylight, involved suspected cultists who invaded the area, opened fire, and then fled, leaving residents, motorists, and traders in a state of panic. Many shop owners shut their businesses, and some residents stayed indoors, fearing reprisal. The Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident, stating that two people were killed on the spot, including a man known as Small Rugged, while the identity of the second victim was still being verified.

Ojelabi also reported that four people with gunshot injuries were rescued by police operatives and taken to hospital for treatment. The Commissioner of Police has deployed tactical teams to the affected areas, with a mandate to arrest those responsible for the attacks. An investigation into the incidents is currently ongoing. The police are working to identify and apprehend the perpetrators.

The recent incidents have heightened concerns about the growing insecurity in Osogbo, with many residents expressing fear and anxiety about the situation. The city's residents are calling for increased security measures to prevent further violence and ensure their safety. The Osun State government has been urged to take decisive action to address the root causes of the cult violence and bring perpetrators to justice.

The cult violence in Osogbo has resulted in significant disruptions to daily life, with many businesses and markets affected by the recent attacks. Residents are demanding that the government takes concrete steps to restore peace and stability to the area. The police have assured the public that they are doing everything possible to prevent further incidents and apprehend those responsible.

The Osun State Police Command has launched a Violent Crime Response Unit, which will work to address the growing insecurity in the state. The unit will be supported by a civilian committee, which will provide additional resources and assistance to help combat the violence. The efforts aim to bring an end to the cult violence and restore peace to Osogbo and its environs.

Key points

  • Another person, Taoheed Ojoiku, was killed in a cult clash in Osogbo, Nigeria, on Sunday morning.
  • The incident is linked to a previous attack on Friday, in which two people were killed and four others injured.
  • The Osun State Police Command has deployed tactical teams to the affected areas to arrest those responsible for the attacks.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.