Tension In Osogbo As Pre-Election Violence Sparks Widespread Shooting; Casualties Reported
The unrest, which erupted on June 9, 2026, has thrown several strategic commercial hubs across the state into chaos just months ahead of the highly contested August 15 governorship election.
The Cause: Rival Thugs Clash Over Political Campaigns
Investigations reveal that the crisis initially ignited in nearby Ile-Ife during a political solidarity walk organized by the All Progressives Congress (APC) for its governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO).
According to eyewitness reports and local traders, violence broke out at the Sabo market when hoodlums began tearing down rival campaign posters. The altercation rapidly escalated into a full-scale battle involving machetes and firearms between factions allegedly affiliated with the APC and the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke's camp (Accord/PDP alliance).
Following the initial clash in Ile-Ife, the violence spilled over into the Osogbo metropolis. A convoy of armed political thugs reportedly drove through major areas of the capital—including Owode-Ede, Olaiya Junction, Old Garage, Aregbe Junction, Oke-Fia, and Aisu—firing shots indiscriminately into the air, forcing traders to abandon their shops and pedestrians to run for their lives. Shots were also reportedly fired at the Oranmiyan House, which serves as the campaign headquarters for the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Casualties and Damages: Multiple Injuries Reported
While official figures are still being compiled by medical and security authorities, the heavy crossfire has left a trail of blood and injuries:
- Owode-Ede: An elderly man was hit by a stray bullet and was rushed to the Osun State University (UNIOSUN) Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, where he is currently receiving treatment.
- Aregbesola Area: A commercial driver sitting inside his transit bus was caught in the crossfire and sustained bullet wounds. He was evacuated to an undisclosed medical facility.
- Sabo Market (Ife): Multiple individuals suffered severe deep machete cuts during the initial bazaar fight, and several vehicles and property—including a suspect's motorcycle—were completely destroyed.
Governor Ademola Adeleke, addressing the media in a late-night briefing, condemned the "coordinated attacks on innocent residents" and claimed that several individuals were feared injured with unconfirmed reports of fatalities. Meanwhile, the Osun APC Campaign Council has countered the narrative, claiming their peaceful supporters were the ones ambushed and violently attacked by criminals linked to opposing factions.
Police and Security Intervention: Public Outcry Over Delayed Response
The handling of the crisis has drawn sharp criticism from local residents and political actors. In the immediate aftermath of the afternoon shootings, eye-witnesses reported a visible lack of intervention from local police units as the armed convoy moved through Osogbo's major junctions.
However, security operations have since intensified:
Military and Police Mobilization: Heavily armed soldiers and police tactical teams have been deployed to flashpoints across Osogbo. Soldiers were observed taking over security at the Testing Ground area, specifically securing business premises linked to prominent political figures to prevent reprisal attacks.
Two individuals suspected of orchestrating local disturbances have reportedly been taken into military custody for questioni
ng.
The state government has issued a stern directive to the Osun State Police Commissioner, urging the command to deploy all available counter-terrorism and conventional units to restore order at transport parks and major intersections. Security agencies are maintaining a high-visibility presence across the capital to prevent a resurgence of violence today.
Editor's Note: This is a rapidly developing story. We will continue to bring you live updates, official police statements, and medical reports as they emerge.
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