Five people have reportedly died following a violent confrontation over control of the Naira and Kobo motor park in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State.
The incident occurred on Monday after an unidentified group allegedly attempted to take control of the motor park, resulting in a clash that left several people dead.
Reports from the scene indicated that the victims included three commercial bus drivers and two passersby. Videos circulating after the incident showed the bodies of two unidentified victims, including one man found inside a gold-coloured Sienna vehicle with what appeared to be a gunshot injury.
The circumstances surrounding the confrontation remained unclear at the time of reporting, while details of what triggered the alleged takeover attempt were yet to be fully established.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed that it was investigating the incident. The command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said authorities were still examining the circumstances surrounding the clash and would provide further information after the investigation.
The development has sparked concern among civil society groups, particularly coming shortly after the conclusion of the Osun State governorship election and amid previous warnings over the possibility of renewed violence in parts of the state.
The Coalition of Civil Society Organisations for Good Governance condemned the incident, describing the loss of lives as disturbing and calling for urgent action by relevant authorities.
The coalition, through its secretary, Olalekan Johnson, raised concerns over allegations that the attempted takeover of the motor park may have involved individuals linked to the security structure in Ikire, including the Divisional Police Officer.
Johnson stressed that the allegations were serious and should be subjected to an independent and transparent investigation. He maintained that security personnel should not be involved in facilitating violence or providing protection for criminal groups, regardless of their position or political affiliation.
The group also called on the authorities to investigate the conduct of every security official allegedly connected to the incident and take appropriate disciplinary or legal action if wrongdoing is established.
It further appealed to politicians, political financiers, criminal groups and other individuals capable of sponsoring violence to desist from actions that could endanger innocent residents.
The coalition warned that citizens should not be used as instruments in political disputes or struggles for control of public spaces, urging law enforcement agencies to ensure that those responsible for the violence are held accountable.
As investigations continue, authorities are expected to establish the circumstances that led to the clash, identify those responsible and determine whether any security personnel or other individuals played a role in the incident.