At least four people have been confirmed dead, with several others injured, following a violent clash triggered by a Point-of-Sale (PoS) transaction dispute in Ojoo, Akinyele Local Government Area of Oyo State.
The incident, which began late Tuesday night and extended into the early hours of Wednesday, reportedly stemmed from an argument involving a PoS operator, a commercial tricycle rider, and some wheelbarrow pushers.
Eyewitness accounts revealed that the conflict started after a failed transaction caused by network issues. The tricycle rider had collected cash from the PoS operator, but the payment could not be confirmed due to poor connectivity.
Despite offering his phone and tricycle as collateral, tensions escalated when some individuals allegedly attacked him.
The rider was reportedly beaten and stabbed during the confrontation. Although he was rushed to a nearby hospital, he later died from his injuries.
His death sparked outrage among colleagues, friends, and community members, leading to a reprisal attack that escalated into widespread violence.
Residents reported that the situation quickly spiraled out of control, with armed individuals allegedly joining the fray. Gunshots were heard during the chaos, resulting in additional casualties, including a young bystander.
The violence forced traders and businesses in the Ojoo axis, including the busy Ojoo Motor Park, to shut down abruptly as fear gripped the community.
Related News:
Several Shops Destroyed as Fire Guts Oyo Market
Police Debunk Claim Abducted Oyo Pupils Flown to Kaduna
Police Nab Two Suspected Highway Robbers, Recover Firearm in Oyo
In response, the Oyo State Government has called for calm and assured residents that those responsible will be brought to justice. Deputy Governor Bayo Lawal, who visited the scene on behalf of Governor Seyi Makinde, described the incident as the handiwork of criminal elements rather than an ethnic conflict.
He emphasized that criminality has no tribal affiliation and reaffirmed the government’s commitment to restoring peace and stability in the area. Security agencies have since been deployed to take control of the situation and commence a full investigation.
Authorities have also urged residents, especially youths, to avoid actions that could further escalate tensions and to allow security operatives to carry out their duties effectively.
Meanwhile, some community youths have issued warnings to suspected perpetrators, calling for their relocation from the area to prevent further unrest.
The government has pledged a thorough investigation into both the immediate and underlying causes of the crisis, assuring the public that all those found culpable will face the full weight of the law.
Normalcy is gradually being restored as security presence remains heightened across the affected community.
About The Author
