Nine dead, 19 arrested in Ondo cult clash as police restore order

Police in Ondo State have arrested 19 suspects following a deadly clash between rival cult groups in Owo, an ancient town in the state.

The violent confrontation, which began around 2 a.m. on Monday, has left at least nine people dead, including a local political leader and a mother with her child, who were struck by stray bullets while fleeing the chaos.

Among the casualties was Fisayo Oladipupo, a 56-year-old chieftain of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and a former youth leader in the Owo Local Government Area. Oladipupo was reportedly shot at close range in what is suspected to be a reprisal attack tied to a decade-old dispute.

Four other victims lost their lives in the Eyinogbe, Ekusi, and Uselu areas of Owo, while two suspected cult members were killed during a shootout between the feuding groups.

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Ondo State Police Commissioner Wilfred Afolabi, who visited Owo to evaluate the situation, confirmed the arrests and reassured residents that calm had been restored.

“We are in Owo this morning to monitor compliance with the curfew imposed by the state government. So far, normalcy has returned, and there is calm across the town,” Afolabi stated.

The commissioner, however, acknowledged discrepancies in the reported death toll, confirming only four fatalities officially.

“For peace-loving residents, we assure them of a safe and conducive environment. But for those who disrupt the peace, we will track them down and ensure they face the full weight of the law,” Afolabi vowed.

To curb further violence, the Ondo State Government imposed a curfew in the area, which police are strictly enforcing. The commissioner and his team visited key trouble spots, including Eyin Ogbe, Ijebu Owo, and the Palace area, to ensure compliance and restore order.

Authorities have promised intensified efforts to maintain peace and prosecute those found culpable. In the meantime, residents are being urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure lasting peace in the community.

The police have also assured the public of a thorough investigation into the incident, with Commissioner Afolabi emphasizing that all suspects involved in the clashes will face justice.

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