Osun man dies after dispute over N8,000 masquerade proceeds
Dispute During Egungun Festival Leads to Fatal Stabbing in Osun State
ILARE, Osun State — A disagreement among three participants in a masquerade procession resulted in the death of one individual identified only as Bukunmi. The altercation stemmed from a dispute over funds raised during the Egungun festival, which took place on Friday evening.
Witnesses, who requested anonymity, reported that the incident occurred after the procession concluded and the group gathered to share the proceeds amounting to 8,000 naira. Bukunmi, along with Femi and Pelumi, found themselves embroiled in a disagreement over the distribution of these funds.
“One of the eyewitnesses recounted, ‘Around 7:30 p.m., boys in Ilare town celebrated the Egungun festival, collecting money from attendees. After the procession, the trio was set to share the 8,000 naira they raised,’” the source said.
Tensions escalated between Bukunmi and Pelumi, who are said to be relatives. Femi attempted to mediate, but the situation deteriorated when Bukunmi reportedly attacked him, striking him in the mouth. In response, Femi allegedly stabbed Bukunmi with a knife, intensifying the confrontation.
As the violence unfolded, nearby residents rushed Bukunmi to a local hospital for treatment, while others attempted to confront Femi. Quick action from officials with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) reportedly helped to de-escalate the situation. NSCDC operatives intervened and took Femi into custody, subsequently handing him over to police officers at the Esa-Oke Division.
“Those present were ready to attack Femi, but NSCDC operatives arrived just in time to secure him,” a witness noted.
Bukunmi succumbed to his injuries later, and the knife involved in the incident was recovered by law enforcement.
Osun State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident, stating that Femi remains in custody while an investigation is underway. “We are aware of the incident. The suspect is with the police. The body has been sent to the mortuary for autopsy, and our investigation continues,” Ojelabi said.
