Ondo Police Launches Manhunt As Cultists Kill Poly Student, Suspect Arrested

By Ayodele Oni

As Cult war rages in Owo Community in Ondo State, a student of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo (RUGIPO), has again been hacked to death by suspected cultists.

The incident happened on Sunday evening when a 25-year-old student, Ayodele Peter, was killed by suspected cultists in the Opomulero area of Owo, Ondo State.

The Ondo State Police Command confirmed the incident, which occurred during what residents described as a coordinated raid by suspected cult members allegedly searching for rivals.

According to a community source, the assailants gained access to the victim’s residence at Shine Villa, Opomulero Street, by posing as visitors, called him out and attacked him.

“We received a distress call that evening that Peter had been shot by individuals believed to be cultists. He was rushed to the hospital but later died,” the source said.

Police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene following the distress call received on December 14, with tactical and intelligence support.

The victim was taken to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, where he was confirmed dead.

Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Jimoh Kazeem, said a manhunt was launched for the attackers, leading to the arrest of one suspect.

“The suspect is currently in custody and has made useful statements. Efforts are ongoing to arrest other fleeing suspects,” he stated.

A separate source disclosed that the deceased was still mourning the death of his mother, who reportedly passed away about three weeks before the incident.

The Ondo State Police Command in a statement explained that it received a distress call on 14th December, 2025 regarding a violent incident involving suspected cultists at Shine Villa, Opomulero Street, Owo.

“Upon receipt of the information, it was alleged that suspected members of a cult group forcefully gained entry into the premises and attacked one Ayodele Peter, male, aged 25.

“This prompted the immediate deployment of operatives of the Division, supported by intelligence-led policing and a swift tactical response to the scene. The victim was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, where he was later confirmed dead.

“Meanwhile, a coordinated manhunt was launched for the perpetrators which led to the arrest of one suspect in connection with the incident.  The suspect has made useful statements and presently in custody while concerted efforts are ongoing to apprehend others at large.”