A wanted ex-convict identified as “Small Rugged” and another person were killed on Friday evening in a suspected retaliatory cult clash in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The Incident occurred in the Owo-Eba area, around Ilesa Garage, where the victims were reportedly attacked by suspected members of a rival group.

The Nation recalled that Small Rugged had been accused by the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) before the 2026 election of allegedly killing more than 10 of its members.

The party had also alleged that he was deliberately released from prison ahead of the election and was subsequently declared wanted.

It was gathered that Small Rugged had gone to the area to hang out with members of his group when the assailants attacked them.

He was reportedly shot several times before his attackers allegedly inflicted further injuries on his face. Another member of his gang, identified simply as Osa, was also killed in the attack.

Confirming the incident, the Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said the command was aware of the shooting, which was suspected to have resulted from a cult clash.

“The command is aware of a shooting incident suspected to be cult clash. Two persons died at the spot.

“One of the casualties, identified as ‘Small Rugged’, and one other were killed, while four persons sustained gunshot injuries. Those who sustained injuries have been rushed by the police to a nearby hospital for treatment,” Ojelabi said.

The police spokesperson added that the Commissioner of Police had directed tactical teams to commence operations aimed at arresting those responsible for the killings.

He warned that the command would not relent in its efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and bring them to justice. (The Nation)