A 19-year-old man, Timileyin Oni, was killed in a suspected cult-related shooting in Ijebu-Jesa, Osun State, on Monday evening, according to the Osun State Police Command. The incident occurred around 11 pm at the T and K Junction, where police responded to reports of gunfire. On arrival, officers found Oni’s body with a suspected gunshot wound to the head. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead, and his body later moved to the mortuary.
Three other individuals were injured in the same incident and have been hospitalized for treatment. The police have not yet made any arrests, but the Anti-Cultism Unit has been deployed to the area to assist with investigations. The Public Relations Officer of the Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the details in a statement, emphasizing that preliminary findings point to cult-related violence as the cause.
Ojelabi noted that the deceased’s father visited the police station and stated that Timileyin was attacked while returning from church. The timing of the incident has raised concerns, especially following a police warning issued the previous day against cultists celebrating the July 7 date, which is often associated with violent activities linked to cult groups in the region. The police have urged the public to avoid spreading unverified information, particularly from political parties, which may be circulating on social media.
The Osun State Police Command remains committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice. Officers are conducting door-to-door investigations and collecting evidence to trace the attackers. The community has been advised to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement. Authorities are also appealing for any eyewitnesses or individuals with information to come forward to aid the investigation.
Cult-related violence continues to be a growing concern in parts of Nigeria, particularly in areas with high youth unemployment and limited access to education and job opportunities. The killing of Timileyin Oni underscores the urgent need for stronger intervention and rehabilitation programs to address the root causes of such violence. As the investigation continues, families and communities in Ijebu-Jesa are left in mourning, awaiting answers and justice for the young man’s tragic death.
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