A violent clash between suspected rival cult groups in the Ilese area of Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State, has left a police officer and one unidentified man feared dead. The deadly incident, which occurred late Saturday night, has thrown residents into fear as security agencies begin investigations into what appears to be a renewed battle between the notorious Aiye and Eiye confraternities.
The attack adds to the growing concern over cult-related violence in Ogun State, a problem that has persisted for years despite repeated security operations. Communities such as Sagamu, Ijebu-Ode, Ilaro, and Abeokuta South have recorded multiple cult killings in recent months, raising alarm among residents and prompting calls for stronger government action.
According to community sources, the violence erupted around 10 p.m. when a group of armed men stormed the Ilese community and began shooting repeatedly. Residents said the gunmen, believed to be members of a cult group, appeared to be targeting rivals in an ongoing supremacy battle.
One community member, who requested anonymity due to fear of retaliation, described the scene as chaotic.
“Tragedy struck around 10 p.m. at Ilese. Two people were killed in what appeared to be a clash between Aiye and Eiye cult groups. One of those killed was a police officer attached to the Obalende Division in Ijebu-Ode,” the source said.
The officer, identified simply as Olamilekan, was reportedly caught in the attack and shot dead by the cultists. The second victim, a man whose identity had not been determined as of Sunday evening, was also killed when the gunmen opened fire.
Residents said the attackers fired several shots into the air as they moved through the community, causing people to flee into their homes for safety. The sound of gunfire reportedly continued for several minutes before the assailants escaped.
The Ogun State Commissioner of Police, Lanre Ogunlowo, confirmed the incident in a brief statement to journalists.
“I can confirm that a police officer was one of the victims. I am awaiting comprehensive information on what transpired,” he said.
The commissioner added that the command had begun gathering intelligence and would provide further details once investigations were complete. He assured residents that the police would not allow the attackers to destabilise the community or threaten public safety.
Ogun State has been battling cult-related killings for several years. Clashes between rival groups—especially the Aiye (also known as Black Axe) and Eiye confraternity—have become common in many parts of the state. The rivalry often leads to deadly reprisals, with young men targeted in street killings, ambush attacks or sudden nighttime raids.
In Ijebu-Ode alone, several young people have been killed in similar attacks over the past year. Security reports also show that Sagamu, a neighbouring town, has recorded some of the highest cult killings in the state.
Cult groups in the region are known to recruit young men from secondary schools, motor parks, and local neighbourhoods, often luring them with promises of protection or power.
Residents of Ilese say the latest killings have heightened their fear. Many people avoided going out on Sunday morning, unsure if further attacks might occur. Parents have also expressed concern about the safety of their children, especially young boys who are often targeted by cult groups for recruitment or intimidation.
A shop owner in the area said she heard the gunshots while closing her business for the night.
“I ran back inside and turned off the lights. It was very scary. People were screaming and running. We just want peace in this town,” she said.
Many residents blamed the growing insecurity on the activities of cultists, saying the menace has worsened despite police patrols. They called on the state government and security agencies to intensify efforts to rid the area of criminal groups.
The Ogun State Government, in recent years, has launched several campaigns aimed at reducing cult violence. These include community sensitisation programmes, joint security patrols, and youth empowerment schemes designed to discourage cult recruitment. The police have also carried out multiple raids on cult hideouts, arresting suspects believed to be involved in killings and gang activities.
However, despite these efforts, the clashes have continued, leading security experts to call for deeper reforms. They argue that a stronger intelligence network, community policing, and better coordination between police and local vigilante groups are needed to tackle the issue effectively.
The death of the police officer has shocked the law enforcement community in Ijebu-Ode. Colleagues describe him as a dedicated officer who served in the Obalende Division. The police have promised to investigate the killing thoroughly and bring the perpetrators to justice.
The identity of the second victim remains unknown, but residents say he may have been a passerby caught in the crossfire.
Families of previous victims in the region have repeatedly appealed for justice, saying many cases remain unsolved. Human rights organisations have also urged the police to speed up their investigations and end the pattern of recurring violence.
As security agencies continue gathering information, residents are hoping that arrests will be made quickly to prevent another round of attacks. Community leaders are also calling for peace and urging young people to stay away from cult groups.