Abeokuta, Ogun State- February 5, 2024: Four individuals lost their lives, and several others sustained gunshot injuries in the ongoing cult clashes in Abeokuta, the capital of Ogun State.
The police have responded swiftly, apprehending eleven suspects connected to the violent clashes that erupted between rival cult groups.
The tragic incidents unfolded on Thursday when Dare, a suspected leader of the Eiye confraternity, was shot dead in front of his residence in the Ijeja area of Abeokuta.
Known by the alias “Oloba,” Dare fell victim to suspected members of the Buccaneer Confraternity, triggering a chain reaction of violence that swept through different parts of the state capital.
Confirming the grim situation, Omolola Odutola, the spokesperson of the Ogun State Police Command, revealed that the clashes involved members of Aye, Eiye, and Buccaneer confraternities.
The violent confrontations spanned various locations in Abeokuta, claiming lives and leaving the community in shock.
Seun Elewode, a member of the Aye cult group, met his demise during a shootout between rival factions in the Adeun area of Lafenwa, Abeokuta.
Described as a notorious cultist who had recently returned from prison, Elewode was attacked and fatally shot during a birthday party at their hideout.
The violence escalated further on February 4, with a suspected cultist losing his life in Oshungboye Crescent, Akinolugbade. Another individual suffered a gunshot wound to the chest during the same incident, adding to the toll of casualties.
In response to the escalating crisis, the Ogun State Police Command took decisive action, arresting eleven individuals believed to be connected to the cult clashes.
The arrested suspects include Oluga Abiola, Olamilekan Abiodun, Olarenwaju Michael, Jimoh Okewole, Wasu Tolulope, Abiodun Adeyemi, Muiz Adeyemi, Adebowale Saheed, Adebowale Ayoola, David Oviem, and Adebowale Olayori.
Omolola Odutola emphasized the commitment of the police to restore order and ensure the safety of residents in the face of these disturbing incidents.
The arrests mark a significant step in the ongoing investigation into the cult clashes that have plagued Abeokuta.
Community leaders and residents alike are expressing deep concern over the persistent threat of cult-related violence in the region.
Calls for increased vigilance, community engagement, and cooperation with law enforcement are resonating as stakeholders seek ways to address the root causes of these clashes and prevent future tragedies.
As the investigation unfolds, the Ogun State Police Command remains vigilant, urging residents to report any suspicious activities and cooperate with the authorities to maintain peace and security in the state.
The tragic events in Abeokuta serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for a concerted effort to eradicate the menace of cultism and its devastating impact on communities.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
