THE ONDO State Government has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew across the town in response to the surge of violent cult clashes that have claimed lives in Owo.
The directive was announced in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the state governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan.
The curfew, spanning from 7 pm to 6 am daily, was declared after multiple security disturbances involving rival cult groups.
The clashes have not only led to the loss of lives but also heightened tensions within the historic town, which serves as the headquarters of Owo Local Government Area.
“Residents are advised to remain indoors during the curfew hours. Only essential services, such as hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement agencies, are exempted from this restriction,” the statement read.
At least four people, including a prominent community figure, have been confirmed dead in the wake of the violence.
Among the victims was Fisayo Oladipupo, a 52-year-old former youth leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Owo. Oladipupo was reportedly shot in the early hours of Monday by gunmen suspected to be members of one of the rival cult groups.
The Explainer gathered that Oladipupo’s body had been deposited at the morgue of the Federal Medical Centre in Owo. His death has intensified calls for government intervention to curb the escalating insecurity in the area.
Governor Aiyedatiwa, according to the statement, has directed security agencies to enforce the curfew rigorously.
“The Governor has instructed security personnel to ensure the safety of lives and property, apprehend those behind the violence, and restore peace to the community,” Adeniyan added.
Owo has witnessed recurrent cult-related violence over the years, with clashes often fuelled by rivalries between gangs vying for dominance.
In June 2022, the town was the site of a tragic attack on St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church, where gunmen killed at least 40 worshippers. While this attack was not directly linked to cult activities, it contributed to the town’s troubled security history.
As the curfew takes effect, many residents remain hopeful that the measures will bring a semblance of normalcy to their community. However, some have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of such short-term strategies, calling instead for more comprehensive solutions to address the root causes of cultism.
For now, the streets of Owo are expected to fall silent each night, as the town struggles with its latest challenge in a long history of security crises.
