Tension gripped parts of Osogbo, Osun State, on Wednesday after suspected hoodlums opened fire around the convoy of Governor Ademola Adeleke shortly after his visit to the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo.
The incident occurred on the same day Adeleke received his Certificate of Return from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following his victory in the August 15 governorship election.
According to reports, the governor arrived at the Ataoja’s palace in a convoy of about 20 vehicles at approximately 3:15 p.m. to present his certificate to the traditional ruler and receive his royal blessings.
Gun Battle Breaks Out
Trouble reportedly began around the palace area as the governor’s visit was coming to an end.
Suspected hoodlums allegedly arrived in an unregistered vehicle and opened fire, prompting security personnel attached to the governor’s convoy to respond.
The exchange of gunfire reportedly lasted several minutes, with reports putting the duration at between 12 and 15 minutes.
The violence caused panic among residents and traders in the area, with some businesses reportedly shutting down as people sought safety.
The Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed that suspected hoodlums had attacked the governor’s convoy and said security personnel successfully repelled the attackers.
Police Confirm Death
While initial reports indicated that there were no casualties, the Osun State Police Command later said a 60-year-old man, identified as Tajudeen Yusuf, was shot dead in the Itaolokan area during the incident.
Police said a full-scale investigation had been launched to establish what happened and identify those responsible.
The police also said the confrontation followed an alleged attempt by a suspected thug to gain access to singer David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, who was accompanying Governor Adeleke.
Davido Responds
Davido later addressed the incident, saying the confrontation outside the palace was unrelated to him and Governor Adeleke.
His comments came amid reports linking the shooting to the governor’s convoy and the events surrounding the palace visit.
Incident Follows Adeleke’s Re-election
The shooting occurred just hours after Adeleke formally received his Certificate of Return from INEC.
The governor had earlier announced a ₦500 million Election Violence Victims Endowment Fund and scholarships for children and dependants of people who lost their lives during the electoral process.
The latest violence has renewed concerns about political and street violence in Osun following the governorship election.
Police authorities are expected to provide further details as investigations continue.
