By Joy Yesufu
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 incident reportedly triggered an exchange of gunfire between the suspected attackers and security personnel attached to the governor.
The shooting, which lasted between 12 and 15 minutes, occurred shortly after Adeleke left the palace hall where he had met with the monarch.
The governor had arrived at the Ataoja’s palace at about 3:15pm in a convoy of about 20 vehicles after receiving his Certificate of Return at the Osun State headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Osogbo following his re-election.
An eyewitness, who spoke with our correspondent on condition of anonymity for security reasons, said Adeleke and members of his entourage were received by the traditional ruler.
According to the witness, the governor reportedly presented his Certificate of Return to the Ataoja before the meeting ended with prayers by the monarch.
She said the governor had already left the palace hall through an exit used by the monarch and members of his household when gunshots were heard.
She said, “He was already in the bus that brought him and his close aides to the palace when we started hearing heavy gunshots.
“Those who attacked reportedly came in an unregistered Sienna vehicle through the Ita Olokan area of Osogbo.
“The shooting lasted for about 12 to 15 minutes before the governor’s convoy eventually left the palace. The governor’s security personnel exchanged gunfire with the attackers, who later fled the scene.”
The immediate cause of the attack remained unclear as of the time of filing this report.
It was also not immediately clear whether anyone was killed or injured in the incident.
The development occurred shortly after Adeleke formally received his Certificate of Return following his victory in the recent Osun governorship election.
The incident is expected to heighten concerns over security in the state, particularly following reports of political tension and isolated incidents during and after the election.
