FEATURES
Tension in Ilesa as Suspected Cult Clash Leaves Three Dead
Three people have been killed in a suspected cult-related clash on Monday in Ilesa, Osun State.
The incident occurred around 8pm on Monday in the Imo area of Ilesa, according to the Osun State Police Command.
The command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said in a statement that the victims, identified as Idowu, Yinka and Eja, were shot dead during the clash.
Following the incident, the Commissioner of Police in charge of security for the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election, CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, ordered the immediate deployment of operatives of the Violence Crime Response Unit to the area.
The deployment, according to the command, was aimed at preventing further violence, arresting those responsible and restoring calm in the community.
“Four expended cartridges and two Android mobile phones were recovered from the scene, while preliminary investigations have commenced,” the statement said.
The police added that efforts were underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify all individuals linked to the clash.
The CP also directed the VCRU and other tactical teams to intensify patrols, surveillance and intelligence-led operations across Ilesa and neighbouring communities, particularly at identified flashpoints, to prevent possible reprisal attacks.
The command warned rival cult groups and other criminal elements against exploiting the incident to perpetrate further violence.
It said anyone found involved in cult-related violence, reprisal attacks, unlawful possession of firearms or other criminal activities would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The police urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding, refrain from spreading unverified information and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to security personnel.
The command said investigation into the incident is ongoing, adding that further updates would be made available to the public.