By Michael Damilola
After a violent clash between rival cult groups on Monday, January 6, 2025, which resulted in the loss of four lives, normalcy has slowly begun to return to the ancient town of Owo in Ondo State.
The clash, which eyewitnesses described as intense and chaotic, had sent shockwaves through the community, leaving many residents in a state of fear and anxiety. However, following the swift intervention of security agencies, including the police and the security operatives, the situation has been brought under control.
According to sources, the cult clash was sparked by a long-standing rivalry between two groups, which had been simmering for months. The violence erupted in the early hours of Monday, with eyewitnesses reporting the sound of gunfire and screams.
The police and security operatives were quickly deployed to the scene, and they worked tirelessly to restore order and apprehend those responsible for the violence.
Residents of Owo react to clash
As our correspondent visited the town on Wednesday, it was observed that market women and men were very few, with many staying away due to fear of another outbreak of violence.
“I didn’t come to the market today because I was afraid,” said Mrs. Funmilayo Adeyemi, a trader who resides in Oke Ogun area of the town and sells vegetables at the market.
“I heard about the clash, and I didn’t want to take any risks. But I’m glad to hear that normalcy is returning gradually.”
Mr. Kayode Ojo, a butcher at the Oja Oba market and resident of Ijebu, expressed similar sentiments.
“I was at home when I heard about the clash,” he said.
“I was afraid to come out, but I had to come to the market today because I have to feed my family. I’m just glad that everything is calming down now.”
In the aftermath of the clash, the Ondo State Government and the security agencies have assured residents of their commitment to maintaining peace and security in the state.
The police have also launched an investigation into the incident, with a view to bringing those responsible to justice.
As normalcy returns to Owo, residents have expressed relief and gratitude to the security agencies for their prompt response. However, many have also called for more to be done to address the root causes of cult violence in the state, including poverty, unemployment, and a lack of opportunities for young people.
The Ondo State Government has promised to take steps to address these underlying issues, including the establishment of programs to provide job training and employment opportunities for young people. Only time will tell if these efforts will be enough to prevent future outbreaks of violence.
