At least five persons have been confirmed dead following renewed cult-related clashes in the Ilemba-Awori axis of Lagos State.
The violence, which spread across Ilemba-Awori and Shibiri communities in Ojo Local Government Area over the weekend, involved suspected rival cult groups engaged in violent confrontations.
Residents said the situation created panic as gunshots echoed through the area while armed individuals moved around with firearms, machetes, and other dangerous weapons.
According to eyewitness accounts, the crisis reportedly began in the Etegbin area before escalating to neighbouring communities, forcing many residents to abandon their homes in search of safety.
One resident recounted that the first fatality occurred on Friday at the Etegbin waterside, where a young man who had been playing football was allegedly shot dead shortly afterwards.
“He was surrounded by the attackers and killed on the spot,” the witness said.
The unrest reportedly continued into Saturday evening, with reports of looting and robbery activities accompanying the violence.
A shop owner identified as Esther said she quickly closed her business and fled with her child after spotting armed youths moving along Shibiri Road.
The victims, believed to be men in their 20s and 30s, have since been deposited in a morgue.
Confirming the incident, the Lagos State Police Command said 18 suspects have been arrested in connection with the clashes.
The command added that the suspects will be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department, SCID, Panti, for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Police Arrest 30 Suspected Cultists, Foil Initiation Procession in Ogun
June 18, 2026
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Ogun State Police Command has smashed a suspected cultist initiation procession, leading to the arrest of thirty male suspects in Isara-Remo. It was learnt that the suspects allegedly converged at an uncompleted building in Isara-Remo, consuming alcoholic substances and chanting
