For students navigating campus life, this incident is a stark reminder of the dangers behind secret cult activities.
The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two suspected cultists and the recovery of a firearm on the premises of The Polytechnic, Ibadan, following a swift operation triggered by a tip-off.
According to a statement issued on Wednesday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Alayande Olayinka, the suspects were apprehended while allegedly planning to attack a rival group on campus.
The duo has been identified as Lawal Opeyemi (31), “Aiki”, and Olaniyan Opeyemi (29), “Bojan”, both residents of Apete, Ibadan.
The operation followed a report from a “Good Samaritan” at the institution, alerting the police about young men suspected to be cultists roaming campus with violent intent.
“Following credible intelligence which was promptly reported to the Police by a Good Samaritan from the institution… a team of Police Operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer, Sango Division, swiftly mobilised to the institution,” the statement read.
A search led to the recovery of a locally made double-barrelled pistol, two live cartridges, and a black bag containing charms. During interrogation, the suspects confessed to being members of the Eiye Confraternity and reportedly admitted involvement in a series of past cult-related clashes at the polytechnic.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the planned attack and apprehend any fleeing gang members. The suspects have been handed over to the Command’s Anti-Cultism Unit for specialised investigation, under directives from the Commissioner of Police, CP Femi Haruna.
The CP commended both the public and officers for their role in the operation and urged parents and guardians to guide their children away from secret and violent groups.
The Oyo State Police Command reiterated its “zero-tolerance” stance against cultism and other violent crimes — a clear message to anyone considering disrupting campus safety.
For students, the incident highlights the importance of vigilance and community partnership in keeping schools safe.
(NAN)
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