Three people have been killed in a suspected confrontation involving rival cult groups in Osun State, prompting police to intensify security operations in Ilesa and surrounding communities.
The incident occurred at about 8 p.m. on Monday in the Imo area and was believed to involve members of the Aiye and Eiye confraternities.
Police identified the three victims by the names Idowu, Yinka and Eja, although authorities said their full identities had not yet been established.
Following reports of the shooting, the Commissioner of Police responsible for election security in the state, Samuel Etaifo, ordered officers from the Violent Crime Response Unit to the area.
Investigators recovered four spent cartridges and two Android mobile phones from the scene.
Police said preliminary investigations had begun to determine the cause of the clash and identify everyone connected with the violence.
Security personnel have also increased patrols, surveillance and intelligence operations around Ilesa and neighboring communities.
Particular attention is being given to locations regarded as potential flashpoints amid concerns that the killings could trigger retaliatory attacks.
The command warned members of rival groups and other criminal elements against attempting to exploit the incident to cause further unrest.
Police said anyone found participating in cult violence, reprisal attacks, illegal possession of firearms or related criminal activity would be arrested and prosecuted.
The increased security presence comes as Osun prepares for its governorship election, placing additional emphasis on preventing violence and maintaining public order.
