Panic broke out in Osogbo, Osun State, on Wednesday after suspected hoodlums reportedly opened fire on Governor Ademola Adeleke’s convoy shortly after he visited the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji.
The attack reportedly led to a gun battle lasting between 12 and 15 minutes as security operatives attached to the governor’s convoy engaged the assailants and cleared his way.
The incident happened around 3:15pm after Adeleke visited the monarch following his receipt of the Certificate of Return for a second term from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Osogbo.
Sources said Adeleke met the Ataoja, presented his certificate and received the monarch’s royal blessings.
However, David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, dismissed the reports as false, saying the incident was a fight outside the palace that had nothing to do with the governor.
The singer, whose uncle is Governor Adeleke, wrote on X: “Lies! It was a fight outside the palace that had nothing to do with us! The people love excellency,”
Trouble reportedly began as Adeleke and his entourage left through a private exit used by the monarch and his family.
Eyewitnesses said armed men arrived in a Sienna bus from Ita Olokan and opened fire around the palace. One witness said they damaged and shot at the main gate before security personnel pushed them back.
Another said the gun battle lasted 12 to 15 minutes before the governor’s security team secured the area and allowed the convoy to leave.
The attackers reportedly engaged the convoy again near Osogbo Central Mosque before fleeing towards Ita Olokan along the Osogbo-Ilesa Road.
The incident caused panic, forcing traders and residents to abandon their businesses and seek shelter. Sporadic gunshots were later heard in parts of the city, leading some businesses to close.
Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, confirmed the incident and said the governor and his team were safe.
“They are hoodlums, and the governor’s security repelled them. They attacked the governor’s convoy at the Ataoja’s palace but no casualties were recorded,” Alimi said.
