Panic erupted in parts of Osogbo, the Osun State capital, on Monday following a violent clash involving rival groups reportedly fighting over the control of motor parks and garages around the Old Garage axis.
Witnesses said the confrontation, which was accompanied by sustained gunfire, sent residents, traders, motorists and pedestrians scampering for safety as the unrest spread across the area.
The incident reportedly disrupted commercial activities, with several shops hurriedly shut while commuters abandoned the area in search of safer routes.
Although the exact number of casualties remains unclear, there are fears that several persons may have sustained injuries during the clash. However, authorities are yet to confirm any deaths or the number of those injured.
Motorists and pedestrians have been advised to avoid the Old Garage area and adjoining roads until normalcy is restored and security agencies secure the scene.
As of the time of filing this report, the exact cause of the violence has not been officially established. While some residents believe the clash may be linked to a dispute over the control of motor parks involving rival transport union groups, others have speculated about possible political undertones.
However, these claims remain unverified, and there has been no official statement from the Osun State Government, the Police, or the leadership of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
Security operatives are expected to investigate the incident and restore peace to the affected area.