In a stern response to the recent surge in cult-related violence in Sagamu and its surrounding areas, Governor Dapo Abiodun has issued a resolute directive to security agencies to combat the menace of cultism with unwavering determination.
The escalating conflict between rival cult groups in the region reached a tragic crescendo on Sunday when a deadly clash claimed the lives of at least four individuals. Eyewitnesses recounted the chaos that unfolded on Ijagba Street, near a local mosque, as gunshots rang through the air.
Among the victims, Olasunkanmi Ajayi was identified, while another woman, shot in the head, remained anonymous. In the midst of the chaos, an anonymous witness described the heart-wrenching scene of a grieving son desperately trying to prevent the police from removing his mother’s lifeless body from the street.
Today, we directed security agencies in the State to rid Sagamu and its environs of the menace of cultists and cult related activities. pic.twitter.com/9kw6o5PCN9
— Prince Dr. Dapo Abiodun, CON (@DapoAbiodunCON) September 18, 2023
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The aftermath of this brutal confrontation prompted swift action from the Ogun State Police Command. Empty cartridges were discovered at the crime scene, evidence of the violence that had occurred.
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Shehu Alao, the Area Commander of Sagamu, led a team of dedicated officers to restore order to the area. However, tensions remained high as two alleged members of the notorious Aiye confraternity claimed two more lives in a subsequent clash.
Governor Dapo Abiodun, visibly perturbed by the growing threat of cult-related violence, issued a statement on Monday addressing the situation. He expressed deep regret for the loss of innocent lives and the widespread destruction of property caused by the rampaging hoodlums.
While acknowledging the relentless efforts of security agencies in tackling cultism in the state, he emphasized the need for a renewed and intensified approach.
“Today, we directed security agencies in the State to rid Sagamu and its environs of the menace of cultists and cult-related activities,” Governor Abiodun declared in his statement.
“Although security agencies have been working tirelessly at eradicating cultism in the state with the support of our administration, a renewed directive came in the wake of the recent clash among rival cult gangs in Sagamu town during the weekend that incited violence causing tension and panic amongst residents of the town.”
Governor Abiodun made it clear that the situation was both regrettable and avoidable, and he expressed his deep concern for the residents who had been living in fear due to the escalating violence. He assured the public that the security agencies, particularly the Ogun State Police, were fully equipped to handle the situation.
He continued, ”Security agents – @OgunPoliceNG and sister security agencies – have since been on the ground to restore normalcy in the troubled town,” the Governor affirmed.
“Also, they have been given a marching order to deal ruthlessly and decisively with those disturbing the peace of the town.”
With the Governor’s unequivocal directive, the security forces have been mobilized to intensify their efforts in rooting out the scourge of cultism from Sagamu and its environs. The residents of the region now look to the security agencies, under the Governor’s firm leadership, to bring an end to the reign of terror and restore peace and tranquility to their community.