A violent assault targeting members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, has resulted in two deaths and several injuries. On Wednesday night, masked gunmen arrived at the Owode-Igbonna area in a white Toyota Hiace bus, clad in black uniforms. Witnesses described a chaotic scene as the attackers opened fire indiscriminately, forcing people to flee.
Kazeem Akande, 70, and a man identified as Lekan were fatally shot during the incident. Among the six injured individuals were Kehinde Salaudeen, a 60-year-old female APC flag bearer, and a 13-year-old girl named Rodiyat Ariyo. Survivors, including Oyedele Awosola, claimed the attackers were known individuals who had recently transitioned from prison. Awosola reported that he narrowly escaped after being confronted by a man nicknamed Small Rugged, who allegedly dropped a Beretta pistol during the pursuit.
Political figures, including Ambassador Issa Niniola and Adebayo Adeleke, have condemned the attack, labeling it a premeditated effort to intimidate voters and political opponents. They urged the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the use of uniforms and potential connections to government personnel. Conversely, Governor Ademola Adeleke expressed concern over the violence, categorizing it as a cult-related incident and denying any state involvement. He directed security agencies to locate and prosecute those responsible.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed two arrests regarding the shooting at Egbatedo and noted that weapons were recovered at the Owode-Igbonna scene. Authorities stated that investigations into both incidents remain active.
