A bloody encounter between rival cultists has left one person dead at the popular Oja Oba market in Ilorin.
The atmosphere at the popular Ilorin Central Market, widely known as Oja Oba, turned bloody on Friday morning after suspected rival cultists engaged in a fierce daylight gun battle.
The incident, which occurred just before noon on March 6, 2026, sent hundreds of petty traders and shoppers fleeing for their lives.
The market, usually packed with heavy human and vehicular traffic, descended into total confusion as the sound of rapid gunfire echoed through the area.
Witnesses say the rival groups showed no regard for the crowd, trading bullets in the heart of the commercial hub. When the dust settled, one of the suspects was found dead, lying in a pool of blood with a locally made gun recovered beside his body.
The deceased has been identified as Ahmed Muse. Sources within the local anti-cultism community allege that Muse was a high-ranking leader of the "Aye" confraternity in the area.
The timing of the clash added to the terror. Many traders were just setting up their wares for the day's business when the shots were heard near the spot where security operatives were stationed to manage market security.
Motorists heading toward the Emir’s Road and Gambari axis were forced to make frantic U-turns to avoid the crossfire. Several shop owners quickly locked their doors, while others abandoned their goods on the roadside to find cover in nearby stalls.
Security forces already stationed within the market perimeter responded quickly. During a hot chase through the fleeing crowd, police operatives managed to intercept one suspect.
The individual, dressed in a white native outfit and carrying a small bag, was immediately taken into custody and moved to the C Division Police Station at Oja Oba.
The Kwara State Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, confirmed the violent encounter, noting that the body of the deceased has been evacuated in a patrol vehicle.
While the situation has been brought under control, security presence remains heightened in the area to prevent any reprisal attacks.
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