Three people have been killed in a cult-related clash involving suspected members of the Aiye and Eiye confraternities in the Imo area of Ilesa, Osun State.

The incident occurred around 8:00 p.m. on Monday.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed the deaths in a statement by its Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi. The victims, identified only as Idowu, Yinka and Eja, were reportedly shot dead during the confrontation.

Upon receiving a distress call, the Commissioner of Police in charge of the 2026 Osun State Governorship Election, Samuel Etaifo, ordered the deployment of the Violence Crime Response Unit to the scene. The team was directed to prevent further escalation, arrest those responsible, and restore calm.

Police recovered four expended cartridges and two Android mobile phones from the location. Preliminary investigations have begun to establish the full circumstances of the clash and identify all persons involved.

The command has intensified patrols and surveillance in Ilesa and surrounding areas to forestall any reprisal attacks. Residents have been urged to remain calm, avoid spreading unverified information, and report suspicious activities promptly to the police.

Photo credit: Punch Newspaper