Gunfire erupted around Governor Ademola Adeleke’s convoy in Osogbo on Wednesday, shortly after he left the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji.
The reported attack sparked an exchange of gunfire between the suspected attackers and the governor’s security personnel, with the confrontation lasting an estimated 12 to 15 minutes.
Adeleke had visited the monarch after receiving his Certificate of Return from the Osun State headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osogbo, following his re-election.
What happened at the palace
The governor reportedly arrived at the Ataoja’s palace at about 3:15 p.m., travelling in a convoy of roughly 20 vehicles.
An eyewitness, who requested anonymity because of security concerns, said the governor and his entourage were received by Oba Oyetunji.
According to the witness, Adeleke presented his Certificate of Return to the monarch during the visit.
The situation reportedly remained calm until the meeting was coming to an end.
After the monarch had offered prayers, Adeleke left the palace hall through an exit traditionally reserved for the monarch and his wives.
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The shooting reportedly began moments later.
Gunfire near the governor’s convoy
The eyewitness said Adeleke had already entered the vehicle transporting him and his close aides when heavy gunshots were heard.
She alleged that the attackers arrived in an unregistered Toyota Sienna through the Ita Olokan area of Osogbo.
The ensuing confrontation reportedly involved the suspected gunmen and members of the governor’s security team.
According to the witness, the exchange continued for approximately 12 to 15 minutes before Adeleke’s convoy was able to leave the palace area.
The suspected attackers reportedly fled after the confrontation.
Questions remain
The circumstances surrounding the shooting remain unclear, including the identity and motive of the attackers.
The incident is particularly significant because it occurred around the convoy of a sitting state governor and involved an exchange of gunfire in a public area.
Authorities will need to establish who the attackers were, why they approached the convoy and whether the governor himself was the intended target.
A thorough investigation will also be necessary to determine how the suspects gained access to the area and what happened during the minutes leading up to the shooting.
For now, the reported sequence of events points to a serious security incident that demands a clear account from investigators.