Oyo State Police Command, Monday, said 46 suspects have been arrested in connection with the mêlée that broke out at Oke-Ado area of Ibadan in the early hours of the day.
There was violence in the area as early as 6.45am when suspected rival factions of the Oodua Peoples Congress clashed, leaving several people injured.
Eyewitness said the factions clashed over the control of the area, with several shops and offices looted. Many vehicles were also destroyed.
“Many vehicle owners driving through the area had to abandon their vehicles and ran to safety.
“The hoodlums shot into the air to scare people away. We don’t know the motive behind the fight, but we heard that they were fighting over the control of the area.
“We also heard that the fight was between New Era faction of OPC and another group loyal to Aare Gani Adams’ faction,” the source said.
Public Relations Officer of the command, Adekunle Ajisebutu, said the CP also visited the scene of the fight and that peace had been restored.
He, however, did not confirm if the fight was between rival OPC groups.
He said, “Forty-six suspects have been arrested already. Normalcy has since been restored following prompt deployment of policemen to the scene.
“The CP, Abiodun Odude, personally visited the scene where he assured residents of adequate protection.
“He has directed that the CIID should commence discreet investigation into the incident.”
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