A violent incident occurred in the Owo-Eba area of Osogbo, around Ilesa Garage, on Friday evening, resulting in the deaths of two individuals. The victims, identified as 'Small Rugged', a wanted ex-convict, and Osa, another member of his gang, were reportedly attacked by suspected members of a rival group. According to reports, Small Rugged had been accused by the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) of allegedly killing more than 10 of its members before the 2026 election.
The APC had alleged that Small Rugged was deliberately released from prison ahead of the election and was subsequently declared wanted. It is believed that Small Rugged had gone to the area to hang out with members of his group when the assailants attacked them. Eyewitnesses reported that he was shot several times and then subjected to further physical assault, resulting in severe facial injuries. The attack has raised concerns about the growing violence and cult activities in the region.
The Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident, stating that the command was aware of the shooting, which was suspected to have resulted from a 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 police have launched an investigation into the incident and are working to apprehend those responsible.
The Commissioner of Police has directed tactical teams to commence operations aimed at arresting those responsible for the killings. DSP Ojelabi warned that the command would not relent in its efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice. The incident has sparked widespread concern and calls for increased security measures in the area.
Small Rugged's killing has significant implications, given his status as a wanted ex-convict. His alleged involvement in the killing of APC members had raised tensions in the region, and his death has sparked fears of further retaliatory attacks. The police have urged residents to remain calm and to report any suspicious activities.
The incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of the government's efforts to curb cult activities and violence in the region. The Osun State government has been working to address the issue, but the persistence of such incidents suggests that more needs to be done to tackle the root causes of the problem.
The police investigation is ongoing, and it is expected that more details will emerge as the inquiry progresses. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the community to prevent such incidents.
Key points
- Two persons, including a wanted ex-convict 'Small Rugged', were killed in a suspected retaliatory cult clash in Osogbo.
- The incident occurred in the Owo-Eba area of Osogbo, around Ilesa Garage, on Friday evening.
- The police have launched an investigation and are working to apprehend those responsible for the killings.
