Political tension heightened in Ilesa, Osun State, on Saturday after gunshots disrupted an All Progressives Congress (APC) rally, leaving at least four persons injured.
The incident occurred nine days before the Osun State governorship election, raising fresh concerns over the safety of political activities in the state.
A 14-year-old boy, identified as Ilesanmi, was among those injured in the incident.
An eyewitness, Kola Adeoti, said the teenager was at his mother’s shop when he was struck in the thigh by a stray bullet.
According to Adeoti, the incident occurred during a confrontation involving APC supporters and some chieftains of the Accord Party.
He further alleged that security personnel accompanying the Accord chieftains opened fire during the confrontation, resulting in injuries and protests in parts of Ilesa.
The allegation, however, could not be independently verified.
The injured victims were subsequently taken to hospital for treatment. No death had been reported as of press time.
Confirming the incident, the Osun State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said the Commissioner for Environment, Mr Mayowa Asejoorin, had been arrested in connection with the incident.
Ojelabi said police operatives were immediately deployed to the scene after receiving the report and subsequently cordoned off the area.
He said the police recovered several exhibits, including spent cartridges and Amotekun personnel caps.
“Mr Asejoorin was arrested at the scene and has been taken to the command for questioning as part of the investigation process,” the police spokesperson said.
The command has commenced investigation into the circumstances surrounding the shooting, while the identities and roles of other persons allegedly involved remain subject to investigation.
The incident has further raised concerns about the conduct of political activities in Osun State as parties intensify campaigns ahead of the governorship election.This keeps.
Credit: Vanguard except headline
