Panic gripped the ancient city of Osogbo on Wednesday, August 19, when suspected hoodlums launched a daring attack on the convoy of the Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke. The violent incident triggered a heavy exchange of gunfire between the assailants and the governor’s security operatives.
The Clash at the Palace
According to eyewitness accounts, the attack occurred shortly after Governor Adeleke concluded a meeting with the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji, at his palace. The governor had arrived at the palace around 3:15 pm in a motorcade of approximately 20 vehicles, having just visited the Osun State headquarters of the electoral commission.
Trouble started just as the meeting was winding down and the governor’s entourage prepared to depart. Suspected hoodlums, who reportedly arrived in an unregistered vehicle through the Ita Olokan axis of Osogbo, opened fire on the convoy.
“He was already inside the bus that brought him and his close aides when we started hearing heavy gunshots,” an anonymous eyewitness disclosed. “The shootout between the security operatives and the hoodlums lasted for about 12 to 15 minutes before the governor’s convoy managed to safely exit the vicinity. The attackers eventually fled the scene.”
No Casualties Recorded
Confirming the incident, the Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, assured the public that Governor Adeleke was safe and unharmed. He praised the swift response of the governor’s security detail in neutralizing the threat.
“They are hoodlums, and the governor’s security repelled them. They attacked the governor’s convoy at the Ataoja’s palace. Thankfully, no casualties were recorded,” Alimi stated in a brief press update.
Fear and Panic in Osogbo
The sudden shootout caused widespread pandemonium in the surrounding area. Nearby traders, shoppers, and residents scrambled for safety, with many local business owners hastily locking up their shops to avoid being caught in the crossfire. Normalcy has since been restored as security agencies have reportedly launched a manhunt for the fleeing suspects.