In a violent clash between two notorious cult groups in Ogun State, Nigeria, at least 20 people have been killed. The clash, which started on Thursday night, involved the Eiye and Aye Confraternity groups in Sagamu, and it escalated to devastating proportions in the early hours of the following day. Among the victims were six young men, including secondary school students who had just resumed the new academic session.
The violence in Sagamu has led to a significant loss of life, with casualties reported in various hotspots within the town, including Agbowa, Ajaka, Sabo, Ijagba, and Isokun. Notably, a 50-year-old gospel musician known as Sunny Pa and a popular drummer named Elemere were among those tragically killed. Prominent areas like Sabo suffered the worst, with approximately 10 people losing their lives.
The cause of the clash remains unclear, but residents have attributed it to factors such as the death of a budding musician named Promise Oladimeji Aloba, as well as disputes over the distribution of proceeds from land-grabbing activities.
Authorities have expressed concern about the situation, emphasizing the need for a collective effort to address the crisis. The Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, highlighted the involvement of non-indigenous people in fueling the violence. The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of nine suspects, and investigations are ongoing to ascertain the remote cause of the clash.
Meanwhile, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has taken decisive action in the face of the escalating violence. He has ordered a restriction of movement in the affected area between 7:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., while directing security agencies to crack down on cultists and their activities. The governor expressed deep sadness over the loss of innocent lives and the destruction caused by hoodlums. He assured residents that the government would not tolerate lawlessness and promised that those responsible for the mayhem would face the full weight of the law.
The situation in Sagamu remains fluid, and the government is working tirelessly to restore peace and security to the town. Efforts are being made to gather useful information from the public to aid in preventing future occurrences. The state government is determined to stamp out the activities of criminal elements and ensure the safety and tranquility of the residents.
In light of the recent developments, it is crucial for the relevant authorities to address the underlying issues and implement comprehensive measures to tackle cultism in Ogun State. The loss of lives and the fear instilled in the community highlight the urgent need for proactive action to prevent such incidents from recurring in the future.
