Tragedy struck Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO), on Sunday evening following the killing of a 25-year-old student, Ayodele Peter, by suspected cultists in the Opomulero area of Owo, Ondo State.
The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident, which occurred during what residents described as a coordinated raid by suspected cult members allegedly searching for rivals.
According to a community source, the assailants gained access to the victim’s residence at Shine Villa, Opomulero Street, by posing as visitors before calling him out and attacking him.
“We received a distress call that evening that Peter had been shot by individuals believed to be cultists. He was rushed to the hospital but later died,” the source said.
Police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene following the distress call received on December 14, with tactical and intelligence support.
The victim was taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, where he was confirmed dead.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Abayomi Kazeem, said a manhunt was launched for the attackers, leading to the arrest of one suspect.
“The suspect is currently in custody and has made useful statements. Efforts are ongoing to arrest other fleeing suspects,” he stated.
A separate source disclosed that the deceased was still mourning the death of his mother, who reportedly passed away about three weeks before the incident.
Commending the swift response of the officers, the Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, CP Adebowale Lawal, reassured residents of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property, adding that security had been reinforced across the state.
