State government condemns attack on Asimiyu Ajibola, demands thorough investigation into suspected politically motivated shooting.
The Osun State Police Command has launched an investigation into the shooting of the Accord Party Chairman in Osogbo Local Government Area, Asimiyu Ajibola.
Ajibola was attacked by suspected gunmen on Wednesday night in the MDS area of Osogbo and is currently receiving treatment at the Osun State University Teaching Hospital (UNIOSUN), where medical personnel say he is in stable condition and responding positively to treatment.
According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, the incident occurred around 9:50 p.m. when two armed men riding on a motorcycle allegedly opened fire on the politician in what authorities described as an attempted murder.
Police operatives reportedly responded swiftly to a distress call, evacuated the victim to a medical facility and immediately launched a manhunt for the attackers.
“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,” Ojelabi said.
The police spokesperson added that preliminary investigations at the scene led to the recovery of exhibits, which are currently undergoing forensic analysis.
Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, has ordered a high-level investigation into the attack and directed relevant units of the command to deploy all available resources toward identifying and arresting those responsible.
“The Command wishes to assure members of the public that no stone will be left unturned in the ongoing investigation,” Ojelabi stated, urging residents to provide credible information that could aid the investigation.
The Osun State Government also condemned the attack, describing it as unfortunate and calling for a professional and impartial investigation.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the government disclosed that occupants of the vehicle conveying Ajibola alleged that gunmen opened fire on them while they were returning from the MDS area of Osogbo.
According to Alimi, the occupants escaped to the Dugbe Divisional Police Headquarters for safety before the assailants fled the scene.
He urged security agencies to ensure that those behind the attack are identified and prosecuted, noting that preliminary indications suggest possible political undertones.
“It is an unfortunate incident which should not be allowed to go uninvestigated. The culprits must be brought to book,” Alimi said.
Authorities have assured the public that efforts are ongoing to apprehend the attackers and uncover the circumstances surrounding the shooting.