There was palpable fears at the early hours of today as residents of Oluwo, Onikolobo area of Abeokuta were seen in a panic mood following the killing of a popular area boy known around the metropolis as Tommy.

Tommy was reportedly killed late Thursday night at Panseke, by some yet-to-be-identified persons.

A gory picture of the deceased which has gone viral suggests that he was brutally hacked to death with either an axe or a machete.

While some said he was hit on the head with a big stone, some other believed that his assailants had butchered him in the head and other parts of the body, leaving him dead in the pool of his blood.

There are reports that he must have been killed by members of the Aiye confraternity, as many rumoured him to be of the rival Eiye cult group.

There is now tension in Oluwo town as residents fear possible reprisal attacks while some people were seen running helter skelter at different times.

Most Shops and residential buildings were under lock and key, while the whole street was partially empty despite being a student environment.

Some of the students spoken to by our corespondent said they are already planning to travel to their various homes for fear of reprisal attacks.

“There is likely going to be a serious fight in Oluwo Abeokuta. That man killed is a big elephant and he is not going to die just like that. He is a very popular man in Abeokuta and I know his boys won't take it easy. Please, it is better to travel and stay safe,” a student said.

Information reveals that Tommy was well known on the streets of Oluwo where he regularly collects dues from residents and for his involment in the organization of the yearly Oluwo Carnival which usually brings music maestro, Alabi Pasuma to the area.

The Ogun State Police Command has confirmed the incident, saying it was a cult clash.

According to the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Abimbola Oyeyemi, 18 persons have been arrested in connection with the killing of Tommy.

He enjoined residents of the area not to panic, saying police are on top of the situation.