Nineteen suspected cult members have been arrested in Owo Town, Ondo State, after a deadly clash between rival cult groups.
It was learnt that a mother and child were struck by stray bullets during the violence, while the death toll from the incident has reportedly risen from five to nine as at Tuesday.
Among the deceased is Fisayo Oladipo, a prominent leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), known locally as Fissey Ehin Ogbe.
The late politician, along with another individual were reportedly shot during the confrontation, which occurred on January 6, 2025.
It was gathered that their remains, along with those of the other victims, have been deposited at the morgue of the Federal Medical Centre in Owo.
However, the Ondo State Police Command spokesperson, Funmilayo Odunlami, while confirming the incident, stated that law enforcement officers have been deployed to restore peace in Owo Town.
“Investigations are ongoing to apprehend those responsible for the deadly clash. Four people have been confirmed dead but normalcy has returned through the intervention of the police and efforts are on to arrest the perpetrators of the act,” she added.
However, the state Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, who visited Owo to assess the situation, confirmed the arrest of 19 suspects in connection with the clashes.
“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 said.
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The police commissioner, however, noted discrepancies in the casualty figures, stating that only four deaths had been officially confirmed.
“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,” he vowed.
The commissioner and his team visited troubled areas, including Eyin Ogbe, Ijebu Owo, and the palace area, to ensure compliance with the curfew.
The Ondo State Government imposed the curfew to curb further violence and prevent a resurgence of the clashes. The police have promised to intensify efforts to maintain peace in the affected areas and prosecute those found culpable.
As investigations continue, residents have been urged to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement authorities to ensure lasting peace in the community.
