Tragedy struck in what should have otherwise been a festive activity when a masquerade in Abeokuta, the Ogun state capital shot and killed a 22-year old Islamic cleric during the Egungun festival. The deceased, identified as Lateef Sabiu was allegedly shot while on a motor bike during a ‘stop and search’ in Ijaye which immediately led to a reprisal attack as youths allegedly razed down a building belonging to traditional worshippers in protest against the murder. Vanguard newspaper reports that the masquerade popularly called “lehin Aponle” was allegedly armed with guns and other dangerous weapons. Confirming the incident Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Muyiwa Adejobi, told newsmen in Abeokuta that the Command had arrested three persons along with the masquerade over the murder of the late Cleric. Reports further state that in light of the unfortunate incident, the Egba Traditional Council  has suspended other activities for the 2013 Egungun festival in Abeokuta.