By Bukola Olamona, Adeboye Ado & Oluwatimilehin Bisiriyu

Tragedy struck in the early hours of Monday in the ancient town of Owo, in Owo Local Government area of Ondo State, as no fewer than four people were reportedly killed by suspected gunmen believed to be cultists.

The clash, which engulfed the ancient town, also led to the destruction of many shops and properties, while numerous residents sustained injuries.

The latest crisis descended into chaos following the killing of a former Youth Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Fisayo Oladipupo, and others, in what is believed to be a politically motivated attack.

Oladipupo, 52, was a well-known figure in the community, and his death has sent shockwaves throughout the region.

It will be recalled that the ancient town had been embroiled in a rulership succession dispute some years ago when guards at the Olowo Palace engaged a militant group called “Ehin Ogbe Boys” in a fierce battle.

Unconfirmed reports indicated that four people were killed in yesterday’s clash, which left scores injured, including a mother and her child, who were hit by stray bullets during a reprisal attack.

The violence reportedly erupted on Sunday, January 5, when Oladipupo was gunned down by unidentified assailants.

Sources linked the incident to a long-standing political feud that has claimed numerous lives and destroyed properties over the years.

The killing has sparked tension in Owo, prompting security agencies to deploy personnel to maintain peace and prevent further unrest. This incident is the latest in a series of violent attacks in the region, including an alleged cult clash that recently left two people dead.

“The man killed on Sunday knew his attacker, which might have led to his death,” a community source disclosed.

The crisis escalated on Monday, January 6, when armed youths stormed the community, disrupting the fragile peace.

A video obtained by The Hope showed an unidentified man lying lifeless on the road while terrified residents fled for safety.

The Police Public Relations Officer, Funmi Odunlami, confirmed the incident but stated that the exact number of casualties was yet to be determined.

“We cannot confirm if an APC chieftain was affected, but four people have been confirmed dead.

“Normalcy has been restored through the intervention of the police, and efforts are ongoing to arrest the perpetrators,” Odunlami said.

Military personnel have reportedly been deployed to the area to prevent further unrest. Several houses and shops were set ablaze during the crisis, leaving many residents displaced and fearful of renewed attacks.

Oladipupo’s remains have been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre morgue in Owo. The area remains tense as residents brace for possible reprisals.

The Commander of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) also confirmed the incident to newsmen, stating that the tense atmosphere in the town has calmed following the heavy deployment of armed security agents.