Tension has gripped Osogbo, the Osun State capital, following a series of suspected cult clashes that occurred between Friday and Sunday, resulting in the deaths of three persons. The incidents have forced residents to flee and traders to shut their businesses, heightening fears across the city. Residents and stakeholders are calling on the state government and security agencies to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed.
The first incident occurred on Friday evening at a lounge in the Owode-Ilesa Garage area, where a rival gang allegedly stormed in and opened fire. Adebayo Taoreed, popularly known as Small Rugged, and another man identified as Osha were killed in the attack. Four other persons sustained gunshot injuries when the assailants fired sporadically while fleeing the scene. The incident triggered panic along the Ilesa Garage-Ayepe axis, with residents running for safety and shop owners closing their businesses.
The Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident, describing it as a suspected cult clash. According to Ojelabi, two persons died at the spot, while four others sustained gunshot injuries and were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment. The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan Zungura, directed tactical teams to apprehend those responsible, but no arrests had been announced as of Sunday.
Claims have emerged linking Taoreed to alleged thuggery and political violence during the 2026 Osun governorship electioneering, although these claims could not be independently verified. The police have not commented on the matter. The incidents have raised concerns about the security situation in Osogbo, with residents calling for increased surveillance and security operations to prevent further clashes.
About 48 hours after the first incident, violence erupted again in the Ita-Olokan area of Osogbo on Sunday morning, leaving a man identified as Taoheed Ojoiku dead. Residents reported that the incident occurred at around 9:30 a.m., throwing the area into chaos. Ojoiku was rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment but was later confirmed dead by medical personnel.
The circumstances surrounding the second attack are not yet clear, but sources suggest it may be connected to Friday's killings, raising fears that it could be a reprisal attack. Residents are urging the state government and security agencies to take immediate action to restore normalcy and prevent further violence. The incidents have highlighted the need for increased security measures in the city.
The Osun State government and security agencies have not issued a statement on the incidents, but residents are hopeful that they will take concrete steps to address the security concerns. The incidents have caused widespread fear and anxiety in Osogbo, with many residents calling for an end to the violence and a return to peace.
Key points
- Three people have been killed in suspected cult clashes in Osogbo, Nigeria.
- The incidents have forced residents to flee and traders to shut their businesses.
- Residents are calling on the state government and security agencies to restore peace and prevent further bloodshed.
