A campaign rally in Ijebu-Jesa, Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State, was briefly thrown into confusion on Wednesday after a podium hosting Governor Ademola Adeleke and other dignitaries suddenly collapsed during a political event.
The incident occurred during the inauguration of canvassers mobilised in support of Governor Adeleke’s re-election bid ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Videos from the scene, which have since circulated widely on social media, captured the dramatic moment the platform gave way, sending the governor and several top government officials to the ground as supporters looked on in shock.
Despite the frightening incident, Governor Adeleke and other senior officials escaped without injury. Security personnel and supporters quickly moved in to assist those affected, preventing what could have turned into a more serious situation.
Among those on the podium when the structure collapsed were Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, Chief of Staff Kazeem Akinleye, Chief Modupe Adeleke, spokesperson of the Imole Campaign Council, Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi, party leaders, aides, and security operatives.
Eyewitnesses said the platform appeared overcrowded, with a large number of dignitaries, supporters, and security personnel occupying the stage simultaneously. Some observers suggested that the excessive weight may have contributed to the collapse.
Although the incident caused a temporary disruption, organisers quickly restored order and the programme continued shortly afterwards.
Governor Adeleke later addressed the gathering, thanking supporters for their turnout and urging them to remain committed to the democratic process. He described the crowd at the event as a reflection of growing public support for his administration.
The rally, organised as part of efforts to strengthen grassroots mobilisation ahead of the forthcoming governorship election, featured the formal inauguration of canvassers expected to campaign across communities in Osun State.
Barrister Pelumi Olajengbesi, who coordinated the mobilisation effort, said the initiative was designed to deepen voter engagement and expand grassroots support for the governor’s re-election campaign.
The governor’s appearance after the incident reassured supporters, many of whom expressed relief that no major casualties were recorded. What began as a tense and anxious moment ultimately ended without serious injuries to the principal officials on the podium.
The event subsequently continued as scheduled, with political leaders delivering speeches and canvassers formally inaugurated for the next phase of the campaign.
