No fewer than four persons have been killed in a violent cult clash that erupted in Ondo town, headquarters of Ondo West Local Government Area of Ondo State on Tuesday night.

The deadly confrontation, which also left five people injured, involved members of rival cult groups, with the victims reportedly belonging to the Eiye confraternity.

According to sources, masked men, believed to be from a rival cult group, carried out coordinated attacks across several locations in the ancient town. Three members of the Eiye confraternity were shot at close range at Ife Garage, while another was killed at Sabo area in front of a local shop known as 'Mama Shop'.

The violence has sparked tension throughout Ondo town, with residents expressing fear of possible retaliatory attacks from other cult groups that suffered casualties in the clash.

Police Confirm Incident

Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer in Ondo State, Olayinka Ayanlade, revealed that the deceased persons were notorious cult members who had been on the police wanted list.

"The command can confirm the murder of four people and five injured, all of whom belong to one cult group or the other. Security agencies are on the ground to protect lives and property," Ayanlade stated.

The police spokesperson urged residents to remain calm and continue with their lawful activities without fear. "I want to appeal to members of the community to go about their lawful businesses without fear or panic. Our men have acted rightly, and if any of them are found to have acted wrongly, they will face disciplinary action. But if they have done the right thing, people should commend them," he added.

The identities of the deceased persons were yet to be ascertained as of press time. The clash reportedly occurred across multiple locations including Ife Garage, Sabo, and Christ Land in the Oka axis of Ondo town.

Authorities have increased security presence in the area to prevent further violence and possible reprisal attacks from other cult groups.