A tragic incident unfolded in Osun State as Mr. Richard Idowu, a United States-based Nigerian lecturer and member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was shot dead in Ejigbo. The incident occurred during the 50th coronation celebration of the Ogiyan of Ejigbo, Oba Omowonuola Oyeyode, on Saturday evening.
Investigations suggest that the shooting took place in the private residence of Prince Eniola Oyeyode, son of the Ogiyan, where a meeting was convened after the coronation anniversary. Eyewitnesses reported that during the meeting, gunshots were heard as attendees were leaving, resulting in Idowu being hit on the leg.
Afiz Lawal, a Personal Assistant to the deceased, recounted the unfortunate incident, revealing that Idowu succumbed to his injuries while being treated at a private hospital in Ejigbo. There were conflicting reports about the individual responsible for firing the shot, with Lawal mentioning Prince Eniola Oyeyode instructing a local hunter to release gunshots into the air.
The incident prompted an immediate order from Governor Ademola Adeleke for a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the killing. The governor expressed condolences to the families affected and directed law enforcement agencies to examine both the remote and immediate causes of the incident.
In response to the tragedy, Governor Adeleke dispatched a high-powered delegation, including the Commissioner of Police, State Commissioner for Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs, State Commissioner for Information, and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, to Ejigbo. The governor called for calm and urged the families of the deceased not to take the law into their own hands.
Additionally, Adeleke instructed the State Police Command to issue guidelines on the usage of local guns, aiming to enhance safety and protection during public functions. The governor expressed deep concern about the incident and emphasized the need for a thorough investigation into the killings.
