By Peace Erewunmi

At least five people have reportedly been killed following a violent clash over the control of a motor garage in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State.

The incident reportedly occurred on Monday at the Naira and Kobo Garage, where tensions allegedly erupted following an attempt by a group to take over the management of the facility.

According to reports, the alleged victims include three commercial bus drivers and two passersby.

The violence has reportedly created panic in the community, with several shops and markets said to have been hurriedly shut as residents sought safety.

Police Confirm Shooting

The Osun State Police Command has confirmed that shootings occurred around the garage but said it was yet to establish the reported death toll.

The command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the police were still gathering information about the incident.

“We are still gathering the information as to what is happening there. I can only confirm there were shootings around that area,” Ojelabi said.

The police position means that the reported figure of five deaths remains unverified by the authorities as investigations continue.

Dispute Over Garage Control

The violence is reportedly connected to a prolonged struggle over the control of motor parks and garages in Osun State.

Reports indicate that the latest confrontation began when some individuals allegedly attempted to take control of the Naira and Kobo Garage, leading to a violent confrontation.

The development comes amid heightened political tensions in the state following the August 15 governorship election, which saw Governor Ademola Adeleke secure a second term on the Accord Party platform.

The dispute over transport unions and motor parks has previously been linked to wider political struggles in the state, with rival political interests laying competing claims to control of the facilities.

Fresh Concerns Over Post-Election Violence

The Ikire incident has raised fresh concerns over the possibility of renewed violence in Osun following the governorship election.

The state had already recorded several politically related violent incidents in the build-up to the election, including clashes that resulted in deaths and injuries.

The latest development has therefore heightened calls for security agencies to prevent further escalation and protect residents and road users in affected communities.

As of the time of filing this report, the identities of those reportedly killed had not been officially confirmed, while the police continued to investigate the circumstances surrounding the shooting.

More details are expected as authorities establish the actual casualty figure and determine those responsible for the violence.