In a tragic incident on Friday evening, two individuals believed to be members of a cult group were killed in a shooting at a lounge in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State. The violent clash reportedly took place in the Owode-Ilesa Garage area, leading to widespread panic among residents and prompting many business owners to close their shops in haste.

Witnesses reported that a rival cult group targeted the lounge where the victims were socializing, opening fire indiscriminately. One of the deceased has been identified as Adebayo Taoreed, known by the alias Small Rugged, who is allegedly linked to the Eiye cult group. The identity of the second victim remains unknown. Additionally, four others sustained gunshot wounds during the chaos and were quickly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention.

The shooting caused significant alarm along the Ilesa Garage-Ayepe axis, as gunmen reportedly fired shots while fleeing the scene, further escalating the fear among locals. Eyewitness accounts indicate that many people, including traders, sought refuge from the violence, highlighting the disruptive impact of the incident on the community.

The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the occurrence of the shooting, with spokesperson DSP Abiodun Ojelabi stating that the incident is being treated as a suspected cult clash. Ojelabi confirmed that two individuals were confirmed dead at the scene, with one of them identified as Small Rugged. He also noted the injuries sustained by four others, who are currently receiving treatment.

The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura, has instructed tactical teams to track down those responsible for the shooting. However, as of the latest updates, no arrests have been made in connection with the incident.

This shooting incident raises concerns about the ongoing issues of cult-related violence in the region, particularly in light of unverified claims linking Taoreed to thuggery and political violence during the recent 2026 Osun State governorship elections. The community remains on edge as authorities work to restore peace and ensure the safety of residents in Osogbo.