By By Elizabeth Ugbo
Popular Nigerian musician David Adeleke, known as Davido, was reportedly targeted during an attack on Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke’s convoy in Osogbo on Wednesday, as police launched a full-scale investigation into the shooting that killed 60-year-old Tajudeen Yusuf at Itaolokan area. The incident occurred during the governor’s visit to the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo after receiving his Certificate of Return from INEC following his re-election. Police said suspected members of the Eye Confraternity allegedly targeted Davido, triggering a gun duel between the suspects and the governor’s security team.
Gun Duel Erupts During Governor Adeleke’s Palace Visit
The incident reportedly occurred shortly after Governor Adeleke visited the Ataoja of Osogbo.
The governor had visited the monarch after receiving his Certificate of Return from INEC.
Davido, who is the governor’s nephew, accompanied him during the visit.
He also travelled with his children to the INEC office and the palace.
However, the situation reportedly turned tense when suspected gang members appeared near the palace.
Police Explain How the Attack Started
Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, explained the incident.
According to him, preliminary findings linked the incident to suspected Eye Confraternity members.
Ojelabi identified one Adebayo Taoreed, also known as “Small Rugged,” among the suspects.
Police described Taoreed as an ex-convict and suspected notorious thug.
He allegedly tried to gain access to Davido but members of the musician’s security team stopped him.
Consequently, the confrontation reportedly attracted other suspected gang members.
The suspects allegedly blocked the palace entrance and obstructed the governor’s convoy.
Gunfire Sparks Panic in Oja Oba
Some residents of Oja Oba said the gunshots caused widespread panic.
They reportedly heard sporadic shooting for more than 15 minutes.
Meanwhile, the governor’s security personnel reportedly returned fire.
The suspected gang members later left the area, according to the police.
However, police said they allegedly shot Tajudeen Yusuf while fleeing through Itaolokan.
60-Year-Old Man Dies From Gunshot Wounds
Police officers quickly mobilised to the scene after receiving reports of the shooting.
They found Yusuf lying in a pool of blood.
The officers rushed him to the University Teaching Hospital in Osogbo.
Unfortunately, doctors later confirmed his death.
The police have since intensified efforts to identify and arrest the fleeing suspects.
Police Launch Full-Scale Investigation
The Commissioner of Police, Election, Osun State Command, CP Samuel Etaifo, condemned the attack.
He described the incident as a dastardly act and promised decisive police action.
Etaifo said the command would deploy every available resource to arrest those responsible.
He also urged residents to provide useful information about the suspects.
The police commissioner encouraged informants to visit the nearest police station.
Residents can also contact the command through its official communication channels.
Furthermore, he urged the public to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their hands.
Ojelabi confirmed that investigators had commenced a full-scale investigation.
He added that the command would provide further updates as the investigation progresses.
Police Intensify Efforts to Arrest Suspects
The Osun Police Command has intensified efforts to identify the suspects.
Investigators are also working to establish the circumstances surrounding the shooting.
Meanwhile, authorities have urged residents to cooperate with the investigation.
The police said public cooperation remains vital to bringing the perpetrators to justice.
