The town of Sagamu in Ogun State has become the battleground for a deadly rivalry between the Aiye and Eiye confraternity members, leading to the death toll of at least 20 individuals.
POLITICS NIGERIA learnt that for several days now, members of these rival groups have engaged in a deadly fight, plunging the town into a state of fear and apprehension.
Among the casualties were five secondary school students.
This publication learnt that these rival cult members executed their deeds under the shroud of darkness. Among the victims, Azeez, also known as Anene and a member of the Aiye group, met his untimely demise in a building along Bello Street, Sabo, Sagamu. Another victim fell victim to a headshot in the Ajaka area of the town.
Additionally, an SS3 student lost his life in a local barber’s shop in the Sabo area. Reports have it that even those outside the immediate conflict have not been spared, as gospel artist Sunny Pa and popular drummer Elemere have also fallen victim to the ongoing hostilities.
The situation has instilled palpable fear in the hearts of Sagamu’s residents, with reports emerging that around 15 people lost their lives over the weekend alone.
Commenting on the situation, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, said there is a need for a comprehensive approach to address the cult clashes in Sagamu. He revealed that many of those causing trouble in the town hail from various other areas, extending as far as Edo State. He called for a collaborative effort involving the community, the police, and vigilance groups to tackle this pressing issue.
Meanwhile, the Ogun State Police Command has arrested seven suspected cultists and recovered firearms in Sagamu. Police Public Relations Officer Omolola Odutola disclosed that the operation was led by ACP Shehu Alao and carried out in conjunction with the Vigilance Group of Nigeria.
A statement by the police reads, “Upon receiving the information, the Area Commander swiftly mobilized more personnel to the scene to prevent the clash from escalating and apprehend the cultists involved.
As a result, seven suspected cultists were arrested, and further investigations led to the recovery of a firearm, three live cartridges, and a criminal charm.
” The individuals apprehended were Asaiye Omolaja, Azeez Nofiu, Mathew Adewale, and Bolaji Ogunkemaya. It is worth noting that Bolaji Ogunkemaya was found with the four deceased persons in the same room where the killings occurred. One individual, Wasiu, managed to escape before the authorities arrived.
“During the raid, Bolaji Ogunkemaya provided critical information, stating that their leader, known as Azubuike aka BETTER, had been arrested by the Area Commander a fortnight ago. This information underscores the commitment of the police to dismantle these criminal networks.
“To address the alarming rise in cult-related violence, the Commissioner of Police, CP Alamatu Abiodun, personally visited Sagamu on the morning of September 18th to assess the situation firsthand and profile all the suspects apprehended.
” CP Mustapha sternly warns all cultists in Ogun State that their activities will no longer be tolerated. He has declared a zero-tolerance policy towards senseless killings and vows that none of these cultists will go unpunished.
“With the restoration of normalcy in Sagamu and the diligent efforts of law enforcement agencies, it is evident that the authorities are committed to maintaining peace and security in Ogun State.”
