The shooting of the Chairman of the Accord Party in Osogbo Local Government, Hon. Ashimiyu Ajibola, popularly known as Baba Isila, has prompted a major police investigation as security agencies intensify efforts to apprehend those behind the attack.
Hon. Ajibola was reportedly attacked by suspected gunmen around 9:50 p.m. on Wednesday along the Osogbo Community Bank axis of the MDS area in Osogbo, Osun State.
Witnesses said the assailants opened fire repeatedly on the blue Toyota Corolla conveying the party chieftain and some of his associates, creating panic among residents of the area.
Although the Accord Party chairman survived the attack, he sustained serious injuries and is currently receiving treatment at the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo. His condition was said to be critical as medical personnel continue to monitor his recovery.
One of the occupants of the vehicle narrated that the attackers pursued their car and fired several shots in what appeared to be a coordinated operation. According to the witness, the victims managed to escape to the Dugbe Divisional Police Headquarters where they sought protection before the gunmen fled the scene.
Following the incident, the Osun State Police Command announced that it had commenced a comprehensive investigation into the attack. In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Mr. Abiodun Ojelabi, the Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Gotan, condemned the shooting and directed a high-powered investigative team to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The police said all relevant investigative units had been mobilised to deploy available resources towards identifying and arresting those responsible for the attack. The command assured residents that no stone would be left unturned in ensuring that the perpetrators are brought to justice.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, also condemned the attack and called for a thorough and professional investigation.
He urged security agencies to unravel the masterminds behind the incident and bring them to justice