Man Shot Dead Near Osun Recreation Centre

A man identified as Adejuwon Adekunle, popularly known as Asa, was shot dead by suspected gunmen near a recreation centre in the Dele Yes Sir community of Osogbo, Osun State, in the early hours of Tuesday.

Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers traced the victim to the area and opened fire between 1:30am and 2am, causing panic among residents. Adekunle was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival. His body has since been deposited at the morgue.

Police authorities confirmed the incident, describing it as cult-related violence. The case has been transferred to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for discreet investigation. As of press time, no arrests have been made, and the identities of the gunmen remain unknown.

Residents expressed shock at the killing, noting that the victim was well-known in the community. Many voiced concerns about the rising spate of cult clashes and violent attacks in Osun, urging authorities to intensify patrols and restore public confidence.

The incident comes just days after the murder of Accord Party chieftain Olalekan Oyeyemi, popularly called Emir Ajagungbade, in Ile-Ife, which police also linked to cult-related violence. Another body was recovered at Mayfair Motor Park following that clash, raising fears of escalating rivalries across the state.

Security analysts warn that the killings highlight the growing influence of cult groups in Osun, often tied to disputes over territorial control, transport union politics, and local dominance. They caution that unchecked violence could destabilize communities and undermine governance.

Police have assured residents that investigations are ongoing and pledged to bring the perpetrators to justice. “We are committed to ending this cycle of violence. Our officers are working tirelessly to track down those responsible,” a spokesperson said.

Community leaders have urged youths to shun cultism and embrace peaceful coexistence, stressing that violence only breeds insecurity and fear. Civil society groups are also calling for stronger collaboration between law enforcement and local communities to prevent further bloodshed.

The killing of Adekunle adds to a growing list of violent incidents in Osun, raising urgent questions about the state’s security architecture and the need for proactive measures to safeguard lives and property.