. His security aides engage hoodlums in exchange of fire
Suspected thugs 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, resulting in an exchange of gunfire with the governor’s security personnel.
It was gathered that the shooting, which lasted for about 12 to 15 minutes, occurred shortly after Adeleke left the palace hall where he held a meeting with the traditional ruler.
The Governor had arrived at the Ataoja’s palace at about 3:15 pm in a convoy of about 20 vehicles after leaving the Osun State headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission in Osogbo, where he received his Certificate of Return following his re-election.
According to the eyewitness, Adeleke and his entourage were received by Oba Oyetunji to whom the governor reportedly presented his Certificate of Return.
According to the eyewitness, trouble began as the meeting was winding down after the monarch had offered prayers.
It was learnt that Adeleke had already left the hall through an exit reserved for the monarch and his wives when the shooting started.
An eyewitness, who pleaded anonymity, said, “He (Governor) was already in the bus that brought him and his close aides to the palace when we started hearing heavy gunshots. Those that attacked had come in an unregistered Sienna space bus 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 men and those hoodlums exchanged gunshots. Those hoodlums later fled the scene.”
The shooting caused panic in the area as traders and other residents reportedly left their wares and fled the area to safety.
Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed the attack.
Alimi said the governor’s security personnel successfully repelled the assailants and that no casualty was recorded.
“They are hoodlums, and the governor’s security repelled them. They attacked the governor’s convoy at Ataoja’s palace. No casualty,” he said.
