Tension gripped parts of Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, on Sunday following a clash between rival groups at Ita-Olokan. The violence occurred around 9:30 AM, causing panic among residents of Ita-Olokan and nearby areas as the rival groups confronted each other. A man named Taoheed Wahab, commonly known as “Ojo Iku,” was reportedly shot during the altercation and was taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
The latest incident is the second in two days, as suspected cultists reportedly clashed at Owo-Eba on Friday, resulting in the shooting deaths of two persons identified by the police as Adebayo Taoreed, also known as “Small Rugged”, and Oluwaseyi Daniel, aka “OSHA”. The Osun State Police Command confirmed the two deaths at Owo-Eba, adding that some other persons sustained gunshot injuries during the incident.
According to the Osun State Police Command, Taoheed Wahab, aka “Ojo Iku”, was shot and taken to a hospital, where he was responding to treatment. The police said the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Zungura, had consequently directed tactical teams to relocate to the Oke-Baale area and remain there until normalcy was fully restored. The tactical teams were also ordered to conduct intelligence-led operations targeting suspected cult members, criminal hideouts and other locations linked to criminal activities.
The police command said cases arising from the incidents had been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, for discreet investigation. Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and tactical commanders were equally directed to intensify patrols, gather actionable intelligence and maintain sustained security presence in identified flashpoints across the metropolis.
The police warned cult groups, their members, sponsors and sympathisers that the command would not allow further shootings or violence, assuring residents that anyone found culpable would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. The command appealed to residents, parents and community leaders to provide credible information on suspicious movements, cult gatherings and criminal hideouts.
The police, however, maintained that the metropolis remains safe and that residents should continue their lawful activities without fear. The public was urged to avoid spreading unverified information capable of creating unnecessary panic. The incidents have caused concern among residents, with many calling for increased security measures to prevent such clashes.
The Osun State Police Command is working to restore normalcy in the affected areas, with a focus on identifying and apprehending those responsible for the violence. The command's efforts aim to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of residents in Osogbo.
Key points
- One person was killed in a renewed cult clash in Osogbo, Osun State, on Sunday.
- The incident is the second in two days, following a similar clash at Owo-Eba on Friday.
- The police have directed tactical teams to relocate to the Oke-Baale area to restore normalcy and conduct intelligence-led operations.
