3 Killed In Osun Cult Clash

The police command in Osun State has confirmed the death of three persons during clashes among two rival secret cult groups.

Tension and apprehension has enveloped Ilesa following the killing ahead of the Osun State governorship election slated for Saturday.

The command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, in a statement made available to journalists, said the clash led to the death of the victims.

He said, “The Osun State Police Command wishes to inform members of the public that there was a reported cult-related clash between suspected members of the Aiye and Eiye confraternities in the Imo area of Ilesa, Osun State, at about 8:00 p.m. today, 10th August 2026.

“Following the incident, three persons, identified as Idowu, Yinka and Eja, all yet to be properly identified were reportedly shot dead.

“Upon receipt of the information, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election, CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, psc, mnips, immediately directed the deployment of operatives of the Violence Crime Response Unit (VCRU) to the area to prevent further escalation, apprehend those responsible and restore calm.

“Four expended cartridges and two Android mobile phones were recovered from the scene, while preliminary investigations have commenced. The Command is also working to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify all persons connected with the clash.

“The CP Election has directed the VCRU operatives and other tactical teams to intensify patrols, surveillance and intelligence-led operations within Ilesa and adjoining areas, particularly around identified flashpoints, to forestall any reprisal attack.”

Etaifo, according to the release, warned members of rival cult groups and other criminal elements against taking advantage of the incident to cause further violence.

“Any person found engaging in cult-related violence, reprisal attacks, unlawful possession of firearms or other criminal activities will be arrested and made to face the full weight of the law”.

The Command appealed to residents of Ilesa to remain calm and law-abiding, avoid spreading unverified information, and promptly report suspicious movements or activities to the Police.

Ojelabi stated that investigation is ongoing, and further developments will be communicated to the public.