A violent clash between rival gang groups in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, resulted in the deaths of three suspected cultists on Friday afternoon. The incident occurred in the Owode area, along the Osogbo, Ilesa road. The victims included Adebayo Taoreed, popularly known as "Small Rugged," who had been declared wanted by the police after the August 15 governorship election in the state.
According to police records, Taoreed, an ex-convict and suspected member of the Eiye Confraternity, had previously attempted to breach security to reach David Adeleke, the Afrobeat musician known as Davido and nephew of Governor Ademola Adeleke. This incident occurred during a courtesy visit to the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, on August 18. The police had been searching for Taoreed since then.
Another victim, identified as a notorious cultist known simply as "Osha," was shot dead at the scene. The identity of the third victim has not yet been confirmed. Sources indicate that cult-related violence has escalated across the state following the recent killing of a prominent gang figure, Oyeyemi Olalekan, popularly known as "Emir."
The Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the killing of the suspected cultists. He added that further details would be released once field officers fully brief the command. The police have not yet released any additional information about the incident or the circumstances surrounding the clash.
The Eiye Confraternity, to which Taoreed is suspected to belong, is one of the most prominent cult groups in Nigeria. The group has been linked to various violent crimes, including murder, robbery, and kidnapping. The Nigerian police have been working to curb the activities of cult groups, which have become a major security concern in many parts of the country.
The recent surge in cult-related violence in Osun State has raised concerns among residents and security experts. The state's governor, Ademola Adeleke, has been working to address the issue, including increasing security measures and engaging with community leaders. However, the persistence of cult-related violence remains a challenge for the state.
The incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing security challenges in Nigeria, particularly in the area of cult-related violence. The police and other security agencies have been working to address the issue, but more needs to be done to prevent such incidents and ensure public safety. The investigation into the incident is ongoing.
Key points
- The killing of wanted cultist Adebayo Taoreed, known as "Small Rugged", and two others in a gang clash in Osogbo.
- The incident is linked to a recent surge in cult-related violence in Osun State.
- The Eiye Confraternity, to which Taoreed is suspected to belong, is one of the most prominent cult groups in Nigeria.
