**Turbulent Day at Kwara Market as Cultists Engage in Gun Battle** A bloody clash between rival cult groups has left a trail of death and destruction at the heart of Ilorin, Kwara State's commercial nerve centre. On Friday, March 6, suspected cultists engaged in a fierce gun battle at the densely populated Ilorin Central Market, also known as Oja Oba, sending traders, motorists, and passersby scrambling for safety. Eyewitnesses claim that the rival groups, identified as Aye and possibly another cult group, exchanged gunfire in broad daylight, causing chaos and panic among traders and residents. One person, identified as Ahmed Muse, a top member of the Aye cult group, was reportedly killed during the clashes. Muse's lifeless body was later seen lying in a pool of blood, with a gun beside him. The incident, which occurred just minutes before noon, sparked widespread panic among petty traders, who had set up their wares amidst the heavy human and vehicular traffic that characterizes commercial activities in the market. The sound of gunshots, coupled with the presence of military and police operatives stationed in the area to enforce market regulations, further heightened the sense of unease. Motorists and pedestrians heading towards Emir Road, Ita Ajia, and the Gambari axis quickly diverted their routes to avoid the scene. Traders were seen hastily packing their goods and fleeing in all directions, while others took cover inside nearby shops and stalls. Police operatives, stationed in the market, immediately swung into action, pursuing some of the fleeing suspects. One suspect was apprehended and taken to the C Division Police Station at Oja Oba. The Kwara State Police Public Relations Officer, Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi, confirmed the incident, promising that the police would leave no stone unturned in investigating the matter. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing cult-related violence in Kwara State and the need for sustained efforts to tackle this menace.