The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the killing of a student of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO), by suspected cultists in Opomulero community, Owo Local Government Area, and announced the arrest of one suspect in connection with the incident.
The victim, identified as Ayodele Peter, aged 25, was attacked on Sunday evening at his residence during what residents described as a violent incursion by suspected cult members believed to be hunting for rival gang members in the area.
A community source said the assailants stormed the neighbourhood, traced the student to his apartment and opened fire on him.
“We received a call yesterday evening that Peter was shot by some guys believed to be cultists.
We were told that they pretended to be visitors, called him out of his apartment and shot him at point-blank range. He struggled to stay alive before he was rushed to the hospital,” the source explained.
The Ondo State Police Command said it received a distress call on December 14 over the incident at Shine Villa, Opomulero Street. Operatives were immediately deployed to the scene with tactical and intelligence support, and the victim was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, where he was later confirmed dead.
Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Abayomi Kazeem, said a coordinated manhunt for the perpetrators led to the arrest of one suspect, who is currently in custody and has made useful statements.
He added that efforts were ongoing to apprehend other suspects still at large.
Another source disclosed that the killing occurred while the deceased was still mourning the death of his mother.
“Peter was still mourning the loss of his mother, who died three weeks ago before this unfortunate incident,” the source said.
Commending the operatives for their swift response, the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, described their action as professional and timely, noting that it reflected the command’s improved capacity for rapid intervention.
The police commissioner reassured residents of the state of the command’s commitment to the protection of lives and property, particularly during and after the festive period, adding that security measures had been reinforced across Ondo State.
He also directed area commanders, divisional police officers and tactical team commanders to remain vigilant and proactive.
The incident has heightened fear among students and residents of the area, amid renewed concerns over cult-related violence. Efforts to obtain an official reaction from the management of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic were unsuccessful as of press time.