Micheal Chukwuebuka, Reporting
SUSPECTED hoodlums on Wednesday attacked the convoy of Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, shortly after his visit to the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji.
The attack triggered an exchange of gunfire between the suspected hoodlums and the governor’s security personnel, lasting about 12 to 15 minutes.
Adeleke had earlier visited the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Osogbo to receive his Certificate of Return following his re-election.
He later proceeded to the Ataoja’s palace, where he met with the monarch.
Attackers Arrived in Unregistered Vehicle
According to eyewitnesses, the attackers arrived in an unregistered Sienna bus through the Ita Olokan area and opened fire as the governor was leaving the palace.
The hoodlums reportedly also attacked the palace gate before engaging the governor’s security personnel in a gun battle.
The attackers eventually fled towards Ita Olokan along the Osogbo-Ilesa Road.
The incident caused panic among residents and traders in the area, many of whom fled their shops for safety.
No Casualties Recorded
Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed the attack, saying the governor’s security personnel successfully repelled the assailants.
He added that no casualty was recorded.
Sporadic gunshots were still reportedly heard around the area as of 4:45 pm.
The attack comes just hours after Adeleke received his Certificate of Return from INEC following his victory in the August 15 governorship election.
The governor had earlier in the day declared a N500 million Election Violence Victims Endowment Fund to support victims of electoral violence.
The incident has raised fresh concerns about security in the state, particularly for political figures, as tensions remain high following the keenly contested election.
Security agencies have launched an investigation into the attack and have promised to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The state government has called for calm while assuring residents that adequate measures are being taken to ensure the safety of all citizens.
As of the time of filing this report, the governor was said to be safe and continuing with his official engagements, while security has been reinforced around the Osogbo area and other parts of the state.
