On a Saturday, the Oyo State Secretariat in Ibadan faced an attack by suspected O’odua Nation agitators. The agitators, dressed in military camouflage and armed with weapons, attempted to overwhelm security operatives at the State Assembly complex and the entire secretariat. Eyewitnesses reported that they hoisted their flag within the Assembly premises.
Security personnel within the state secretariat swiftly called for backup, expressing concerns about safely neutralizing the agitators. This led to a scene of sporadic gunfire as various security forces, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, the Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), converged to restore order and overpower the agitators.
According to reports, the agitators arrived in an ash-colored Hiace bus and two motorcycles, which were later seized and taken to the police headquarters. They reportedly headed straight to the State House of Assembly premises, where they removed the Nigerian national flag and replaced it with their own O’odua Nation flag before security forces intervened.
During the altercation, several of the agitators were arrested, while others managed to flee the scene. Security personnel pursued the fleeing individuals into nearby bushes and forests. Unconfirmed reports suggest that a total of 16 suspects have been arrested, with two sustaining bullet wounds and some others escaping with gunshot injuries.
Mr. Fatai Owoseni, the Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Security, confirmed that the situation has been controlled. He described the gunmen as “miscreants” and urged the public not to panic, assuring them that everything was under control.
“We were able to arrest some of them while others fled,” said Owoseni. “There is no need to panic. Everything is under control.”
Security personnel have been stationed at the secretariat gate to ensure the area’s safety. Adewale Osifeso, the state’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), confirmed the incident, stating that he was still gathering details about the situation. Investigations into the incident are ongoing.
In conclusion, the attack on the Oyo State Secretariat by suspected O’odua Nation agitators underscores the importance of maintaining security measures to protect public institutions and ensure the safety of citizens. The swift response by security forces and the subsequent arrest of suspects demonstrate the government’s commitment to maintaining law and order in the state.
