Another person killed in Osogbo as cult violence continues

By Isa Isawade

Another killing in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, in a suspected cult clash, barely two days after two persons were murdered in the town, has intensified widespread panic.

The latest incident occurred on Sunday morning at Ita-Olokan area of Osogbo, where a man identified as Taoheed Ojoiku was reportedly killed during a clash between rival cult groups.

The clash, which occurred around 9:30am, caused panic in the area as residents scampered for safety.

It was gathered that Ojoiku sustained severe injuries during the attack and was rushed to a nearby hospital where he was later confirmed dead by medical personnel.

Although details surrounding the attack were still sketchy as of press time, sources said it may not be unconnected with the killing of two persons at Owo Eba area of Ilesa Garage, Osogbo, on Friday.

On Friday afternoon, suspected cultists had attacked the Owo Eba area, killing two persons, including a man popularly known as Small Rugged, while four others sustained gunshot injuries.

Eyewitnesses said the attackers invaded the area in broad daylight and opened fire before fleeing, leaving residents, motorists and traders in panic. The incident forced many shop owners to shut their businesses while some residents stayed indoors for fear of reprisal.

Confirming the Friday attack, the Osun State Police Command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said two persons were killed on the spot, with one identified as Small Rugged, while the identity of the other victim was yet to be ascertained.

Ojelabi said four other persons who sustained gunshot injuries were rescued by police operatives and taken to hospital for treatment.

He added that the Commissioner of Police had deployed tactical teams to the affected areas with a mandate to arrest those behind the attacks, noting that investigation was ongoing.