By Kayode Olabanji, Okitipupa

A violent clash between rival factions in the UgboNla community of Ilaje Local Government, Ondo State, has claimed the life of one Mr Bababo Lowo.

The incident, which occurred on Thursday, saw several vehicles destroyed, while an attempt was made to set Zion Church ablaze before security operatives intervened.

The deceased’s body has been deposited at the State Specialist Hospital in Okitipupa, while two individuals who sustained severe injuries were rushed to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.

Chairman of Ilaje Local Government, Toyin Ogungbure led a team of security operatives to the area to restore calm.

The conflict reportedly stemmed from a minor protest involving rival factions, one aligned with the King of Zion and the other with the appointed Baale.

In a bid to prevent further violence, the Chairman ordered the deployment of additional security personnel, including the Amotekun Corps, while the Nigerian Navy was stationed in the community for continuous surveillance.

He further announced plans to convene a high-level security meeting with key stakeholders to address the underlying issues.

Upon the arrival of security forces, many of the suspected perpetrators fled the scene.

Ogungbure assured residents that justice would be served and warned against further bloodshed.

He stressed the need for peaceful conflict resolution and urged residents to support government-led mediation efforts.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment to peace and security, the Chairman declared that violent disputes would not be tolerated under his administration.