The Chairman of the Accord Party in Osogbo Local Government Area, Hon. Asimiyu Ajibola, popularly known as Baba Isila, is currently receiving treatment at the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, after surviving a gun attack by suspected assailants on Wednesday night.
In a statement released by Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment to Osun State Government, Hon. Kolapo Alimi, the attack, which occurred around 9:50 p.m. near the Community Bank axis of the MDS area in Osogbo, sparked panic among residents as gunmen reportedly opened fire on a blue Toyota Corolla carrying the party chairman and several associates.
Witnesses said the attackers trailed the vehicle before unleashing a barrage of gunfire in what appeared to be a carefully coordinated operation. Although Ajibola narrowly escaped death, he sustained serious injuries and remains under close medical observation.
One of the occupants of the vehicle recounted the terrifying ordeal, explaining that they were returning from the MDS area when armed men suddenly began pursuing them.
“We were on our way back at about 9:50 p.m. when the gunmen started chasing us and firing repeatedly at our vehicle,” he said. “We managed to drive to the Dugbe Divisional Police Headquarters, where we sought protection. The attackers eventually retreated and fled the scene.”
The witness added that the incident was immediately reported to the police before the injured chairman was rushed to the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital for emergency treatment.
The attack has drawn condemnation from the Osun State Government. Reacting to the incident, the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Hon. Kolapo Alimi, described the shooting as disturbing and called for a thorough investigation.
According to Alimi, security agencies must ensure that those behind the attack are identified and prosecuted.
“This is a very unfortunate incident that should not be allowed to go unresolved,” he said. “The police must carry out a professional investigation without fear or favour and bring the perpetrators to justice. From available indications, the attack appears to have political undertones.”
As of the time of filing this report, security authorities had not released an official statement on the incident. Investigations are, however, said to be ongoing.
The shooting has heightened concerns over political violence and public safety in the state, with many residents calling for swift action to prevent further attacks and ensure those responsible are held accountable.
