At least five people were reportedly killed on Monday following a violent clash between rival groups over the control of the Naira and Kobo motor garage in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State.
The incident reportedly occurred amid an alleged attempt by an unidentified group to forcefully take over the motor park, triggering violence that left several people dead.
Footage obtained after the incident showed the lifeless body of an unidentified man with what appeared to be a gunshot wound to the head inside a gold-coloured Toyota Sienna.
Another video also showed the body of another victim lying on the ground.
According to local reports, three commercial bus drivers and two passersby were killed during the clash. However, details surrounding the incident remained sketchy as of press time.
Confirming the incident, the spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the command had commenced investigation into the clash.
“Presently, we’re still looking at the matter. Once we’re done with the investigation, we will refer back to you. Give us time,” Ojelabi said.
The development has also drawn condemnation from the Coalition of Civil Society Organisations for Good Governance, which described the incident as disturbing and called for an independent investigation.
In a statement issued on Monday, the coalition’s secretary, Olalekan Johnson, said the latest violence was particularly troubling coming days after the conclusion of the Osun State governorship election and amid previous warnings over possible violence around motor parks and local government areas.
Johnson alleged that the attempted takeover of the motor park may have received support from elements within the security architecture, including the Divisional Police Officer in Ikire.
He, however, stressed that the allegation should be subjected to a transparent and independent investigation.
“The coalition is deeply alarmed by allegations that the attempted takeover of the motor park was aided or facilitated by elements within the security architecture, including the Divisional Police Officer in Ikire,” he said.
Johnson called for an immediate investigation into the conduct of the DPO and any other security personnel alleged to have compromised the operation.
He said appropriate disciplinary or criminal action should follow if investigations establish wrongdoing.
The coalition also warned politicians, financiers of violence, criminal gangs and compromised security personnel against exploiting innocent citizens for political or criminal interests.
It urged the authorities to act swiftly to prevent further violence and restore peace in Ikire.
The police have yet to release an official figure on the number of casualties, while investigations into the circumstances surrounding the clash are ongoing.
