LAGOS/OGUN, Nigeria — Four people have been killed in fresh violence by cult groups in communities across Lagos and Ogun states, raising fears among residents about escalating unrest.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The clashes, which involved rival confraternities, took place late Sunday night in Ijagba, Sagamu in Ogun State, and earlier in parts of Lagos. Witnesses say the attacks involved gunshots and edged weapons.

In Ogun State, residents of Ijagba Street reported that two people were shot dead beside a mosque. One was a woman; the other man has since been identified as Olasunkanmi Ajayi. Another clash occurred when members of a rival cult group shot and killed two more people while the police were trying to restore order.

The Ogun State Police have confirmed at least two arrests. Police also said they found empty cartridges at crime scenes.

In Lagos, suspected cultists riding motorcycles reportedly attacked several individuals in the Ikorodu area late Friday. Among the dead was a 63-year-old native doctor named Rasheed Yusuf, known locally as “Low Banger.” Two men, Yusuf Cisco and Lukman Apetu, were also killed while returning from work on a motorcycle. A yet-unidentified person was also killed; several people were injured in the attack.

A woman and a two-year-old child were shot but survived.

Police say three suspects have been arrested in connection with the Lagos attack. The case has been transferred to a special unit that handles violent crimes.

Lawmakers in Ogun have raised alarms over what they call “incessant cult clashes” in Obantoko, Odeda Local Government Area. Hon. Oludaisi Elemide said that between Sunday and Wednesday, about four people were killed in Apete, Fajol and nearby communities.

Residents say they are afraid to move freely. Businesses are suffering as people close shops early to avoid being caught in crossfire. Hon. Elemide appealed to the police to increase patrols and act professionally. The Speaker of the Ogun State House, Hon. Olakunle Oluomo, urged parents to teach their children moral values to help stop cultism.

The police in both states have promised investigations. Ogun State Police Command said it has launched operations to arrest those involved and to stop further attacks.

Experts say the violence is fuelled by rivalry between cult groups, weak law enforcement, and unemployment. Community leaders say they want both the government and police to do more, including early warning systems, community patrols, and youth engagement programs.

As of now, the death toll stands at four in these latest incidents, with dozens injured and many families mourning lost loved ones. The victims came from different age groups and walks of life, including a native doctor. The mood in the affected areas remains tense.