The Osun State Police Command has confirmed the death of a 19-year-old teenager, Timileyin Oni, following a shooting incident in Ijebu-Jesa, Oriade Local Government Area of the state, which also left three other persons injured.
The incident, which occurred around 11 p.m. on Monday at the T&K Junction area of the town, has sparked concern among residents and drawn political reactions from major stakeholders in the state.
Confirming the development on Tuesday, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Abiodun Ojelabi, said officers responded swiftly to reports of gunfire and discovered the victim with a suspected gunshot wound to the head.
According to Ojelabi, Timileyin was immediately rushed to a hospital but was pronounced dead by medical personnel.
“Upon arrival at the scene, officers found the victim with a severe head injury suspected to be a gunshot wound. He was taken to the hospital, where he was confirmed dead. Three other individuals also sustained injuries and are currently receiving treatment,” the police spokesperson said.
Preliminary investigations by the command suggest that the attack may be linked to cult-related activities. Ojelabi noted that the police had earlier warned against activities associated with the annual July 7 (7/7) cult celebrations and said the Anti-Cultism Unit has been deployed to intensify investigations.
“No arrest has been made at this stage, but investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend those responsible,” he added.
Meanwhile, the tragic incident has generated political controversy, with the Accord Party and the All Progressives Congress (APC) exchanging accusations over the circumstances surrounding the attack.
The spokesperson for the Imole Campaign Council, Pelumi Olajengbesi, alleged that armed political thugs were responsible for the shooting and blamed members of the APC for the violence.
However, the Chairman of Oriade Local Government, Olubunmi Obeisun, dismissed the allegation, insisting that there was no evidence linking the APC to the incident.
Obeisun cited the testimony of one of the survivors, Oginni Olamide Oluwole, who reportedly stated that he and others were on their way to church when two armed men on motorcycles opened fire on them.
According to the survivor, the group attempted to seek refuge in a nearby shop, but one of the attackers allegedly pursued them and continued shooting, resulting in the death of Timileyin Oni and injuries to others.
The council chairman maintained that the attack was unrelated to political activities and urged the public to allow security agencies to complete their investigations without interference.
As police continue their probe, residents of Ijebu-Jesa have called for justice and improved security measures to prevent further violence in the community.
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