Osun police launch probe after gunmen shoot Accord chair

Osun State police command on Thursday said it has launched a probe into the attack on the Accord chairman for Osogbo Local Government Area, Asimiyu Ajibola, which left him battling for life at the Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo.

The command, in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the incident occurred on Wednesday at about 9:50pm in the MDS Area of Osogbo, when two armed men riding on a motorcycle reportedly attacked the victim in an apparent attempt at murder.

Ojelabi added that upon receiving the distress report, the command immediately mobilised tactical and conventional teams to the scene.

“A team of police officers swiftly evacuated the victim to a medical facility where he is currently receiving treatment.

“Medical personnel have confirmed that Hon Ajibola is in a stable condition and responding positively to treatment.

“‎Simultaneously, other operational teams launched an aggressive pursuit of the fleeing suspects in an effort to apprehend them and bring them to justice.

“Preliminary investigation at the scene led to the recovery of exhibits which are currently being subjected to forensic analysis,” he further said.

Condemning the incident, Ojelabi said the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, had ordered a high-powered investigation into the incident.

“He (CP) has directed all relevant investigative units to deploy every available resource to unravel the circumstances surrounding the attack, identify those responsible, and ensure prompt arrest and prosecution.

‎”The command wishes to assure members of the public that no stone will be left unturned in the ongoing investigation.

“Citizens are urged to remain calm, law-abiding, and provide credible information that may assist the police in tracking down the perpetrators,” the statement read.

Also reacting to the incident, Osun State Government, in a statement signed by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, said Ajibola was currently on the danger list at the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo.

Alimi said one of the co-occupants of the vehicle that conveyed Ajibola when he was attacked explained that they were coming from the MDS Area, around 9:50pm, when, all of a sudden, some gun-wielding men chased and released a volley of bullets on those in the car.

He added that the victims managed to escape to the Dugbe Divisional Police Headquarters located a few metres away for protection before the assailants retreated and ran away.

The commissioner urged the police not to leave any stone unturned in unearthing the masterminds of the dastardly act.

“It is an unfortunate incident which should not be allowed to go uninvestigated.

“The culprits must be brought to book. We are, therefore, calling on the police to carry out their investigation, professionally, without fear or favour, in unearthing the masterminds of the attack, which, from all available indices, has elements of political colourations,” Alimi said.