Gov Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has declared a dawn-to-dusk curfew in Owo town following the violent clash between rival cult groups that claimed at least four lives on Monday.
The announcement was made in a statement issued by the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Ebenezer Adeniyan, on Monday evening, citing the need to curb further violence and restore peace.
The statement read, “Due to the ongoing violent cult clashes and security disturbances in Owo, which have led to the loss of lives, the Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has ordered a dawn-to-dusk curfew in the town until further notice.
“All residents are required to remain indoors during the curfew. Only essential services, such as hospitals, emergency services, and law enforcement, are exempted from the curfew.”
The governor also directed security agencies to enforce the curfew strictly, apprehend those behind the violence, and ensure the safety of lives and property in the area.
The cult clash, which erupted in the early hours of Monday, is believed to be part of a long-standing rivalry between two groups vying for supremacy in the region.
The violence caused panic in the community, prompting swift intervention from the state government.
Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized his administration’s commitment to maintaining law and order, urging residents to cooperate with security agencies during the curfew.
