Deadly Cult Clash Rocks Ondo: Four Feared Dead, Several Injured
A wave of violence swept through Ondo town, the administrative center of Ondo Local Government Area in Ondo State, as a suspected clash between rival cult groups resulted in the death of four individuals and left five others injured.
The incident unfolded on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, sending shockwaves through communities in areas such as Ife Garage, Sabo, and Christ Land in Oka. According to local sources, the victims were ambushed and shot by armed men wearing masks—believed to be members of an opposing cult faction.
Gunfire in the Streets: Chaos and Panic
Eyewitnesses described scenes of terror as gunshots rang out in broad daylight. At least three individuals were reportedly gunned down at Ife Garage, while another was shot dead in front of a neighborhood store known locally as “Mama Shop” in the Sabo area. The attacks triggered panic, with residents and passersby running for safety.
One witness, who requested anonymity for security reasons, said the attackers appeared to have specific targets and carried out the shootings with chilling precision.
Police React: Victims Were Known Cultists
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, SP Olayinka Ayanlade, revealed that the deceased were known members of cult groups who had been under police surveillance for some time.
“We can confirm that four individuals lost their lives and five others sustained injuries in what appears to be a confrontation between rival cult groups,” Ayanlade stated. “All the deceased were on the police watchlist for cult-related activities.”
He urged residents to stay calm, assuring them that law enforcement officers were working to stabilize the situation and ensure public safety.
Crackdown Begins: Suspected Cultists Arrested in Pre-Dawn Raids
Following the incident, police launched a series of operations targeting suspected hideouts linked to the violence. In the early hours of Wednesday, May 28, a combined team of security operatives stormed parts of New Garage and Ayeyemi—areas believed to harbor members of the warring groups.
SP Ayanlade justified the police response, describing the situation as one that required urgent and decisive action. “Everyone apprehended during the operation is connected to the unrest. Where any officer is found to have acted outside the law, appropriate disciplinary steps will be taken. But we stand by officers who did their jobs lawfully.”
Tightened Security as Fear Lingers
In response to the escalating tension, security patrols have been ramped up in key flashpoints, particularly in New Garage and Ayeyemi, which are seen as hotbeds for cult-related activities. Authorities have pledged to intensify efforts to restore peace and bring those responsible to justice.
As investigations continue, residents are being urged to report suspicious activity and support ongoing efforts to curb the growing threat of cultism in the state.
