Suspected Cultists Kill Police Officer in Ogun Community: Ijebu Ode
Suspected Cultists Kill Police Officer in Ogun Community
A violent clash between suspected cult groups in the Ilese area of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, has left a police officer and one unidentified man dead. The incident has thrown the entire community into fear and mourning.
Night of Chaos in Ilese
The attack happened late on Saturday around 10 p.m. when armed cultists stormed the neighborhood and began shooting. Residents ran for safety as gunshots echoed throughout the community.
A witness, who asked not to be named, described the moment as “chaotic and terrifying.” He said the attackers moved freely for several minutes before leaving the area.
The clash was reportedly between members of the Aiye and Eiye confraternities, two rival groups known for violent clashes across southwestern Nigeria.
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Victims Identified
One of the victims was Police Constable Olamilekan, who served at the Obalende Division in Ijebu-Ode. He may have been caught in the crossfire or directly targeted by the gunmen.
The second victim, a male passerby, had not been identified at the time of this report.
A resident explained:
“Tragedy struck at Ilese last night as two people were killed. One is a police officer called Olamilekan. The other man is still unknown. The cultists came shooting, and people ran for their lives.”
Police React to the Incident
The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, confirmed the attack on Sunday. He stated that he was still awaiting full details from officers on the ground.
“I can confirm that a police officer was a victim in the incident. I am still waiting for the details of what really happened,” he said.
Police sources say a manhunt for the attackers will begin immediately. Security patrols in Ijebu-Ode and nearby areas may also be increased due to recent cult-related activities.
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Rising Concerns Over Security in Nigeria
This attack adds to a growing number of violent incidents targeting police officers nationwide. Last week, five officers were killed and two others injured in an ambush by gunmen in Sabon Sara village, Darazo Local Government Area of Bauchi State.
Three days before that, another officer died in Abuja while trying to stop a kidnapping attempt.
Security experts warn that these attacks may weaken police morale and encourage more violence by criminal groups.
Cult Clashes in Southwestern Nigeria
Ogun State has faced ongoing cult-related violence for years. Many of the clashes are linked to battles for territory, revenge attacks, or leadership struggles among rival gangs.
Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, and Abeokuta have all experienced similar incidents recently.
Residents of Ilese are now calling on the government and security agencies to act fast. They want stronger patrols, better intelligence gathering, and more community-based security measures.
Community in Fear, Authorities Under Pressure
The community remains tense as investigations continue. Many residents fear that a fresh round of attacks or reprisals could break out between the rival cult groups.
Local leaders are urging youths to avoid cultism and are calling for government intervention through community policing and youth empowerment programs
Content Credit: Ohidah Oluwaferanmi
Image Credit: Punchnewspaper.com
