One killed, two buildings razed in Kwara cult attack

In Eyenkorin community, Asa local government area, a clash between two rival groups suspected to be secret cult members resulted in tragic consequences early Tuesday morning.

Reports indicate that one life was lost and two buildings were set ablaze during the violent confrontation.

According to finding by Nigerian Tribune, the incident occurred around 4:50 am when one of the rival groups deliberately ignited a fire in a building, triggering a deadly confrontation between the factions.

Tragically, one person lost their life in the attack. Subsequently, relatives of the victim embarked on a revenge mission, setting ablaze the building belonging to a leader of the opposing group responsible for the initial attack.

The situation escalated until the intervention of the state Fire Service crew and the Divisional Police Station, which managed to contain the flames and prevent further destruction.

Hassan Adekunle, the head of media and publicity for the State Fire Service, confirmed the incident, lamenting that the attackers obstructed efforts by occupants and sympathizers to extinguish the fire, resulting in significant damage and loss.

In his statement, titled, ARSON ATTACK: Two Buildings Razed in Eyenkorin Clash, the state Fire Service said that: “In a shocking turn of events, two buildings were reduced to ashes in Eyenkorin, Asa Local Government, on Tuesday, April 30, 2024. The Kwara State Fire Service responded promptly to a distress call at approximately 4:50 hours, only to find two structures engulfed in flames.

“One building, comprising six rooms, and another with four rooms, were completely razed by the fire. The inferno left nothing but ruins in its wake, a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and hatred.

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“Investigations revealed a sinister plot, as the inferno was deliberately set by rival groups clashing in a deadly confrontation. One life was lost, and the bereaved group exacted revenge by targeting the home of the opposing group’s leader, leaving two houses in ruins.

“In a cruel twist, the attackers prevented occupants and sympathizers from putting out the fire, ensuring maximum destruction.

“Thanks to the swift response of the fire crew and the Divisional Police Station, further destruction was prevented. However, the incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of violence and hatred.

“The Director of the Kwara State Fire Service, Prince Falade John, extended condolences to the affected families and urged parents and guardians to instill good conduct in their wards to ensure a safe and peaceful society.

“He emphasized the importance of community cohesion and conflict resolution, stressing that violence only leads to more suffering and devastation”.

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