Allegedly, gunmen have targeted two traditional Chiefs (Baales) – Saibu Razaq of Keleu village and Sesi Ọdunjo of Abule-Oko Village in Ogun State. The incident took place as they were returning from a Council of Baales meeting at Obalade Abule Oba village. The event unfolded around 4 pm on Thursday, between Alabe and Okesa villages in Ewekoro Local Government Area.
Following reports of the shootings, one member of the Social Orientation and Safety Corps who arrived at the scene was fatally shot by the gunmen.
A police source shared that the two local chiefs sustained gunshot wounds during the unexpected attack by the gunmen who emerged from the bush and began shooting. One Baale was hit in the shoulder, while the other had a head wound.
According to the police source, “The Baales were ambushed by about five hoodlums as they returned from their Council of Oba’s meeting. Shots were fired, injuring them. They were swiftly taken to the hospital for treatment. Nearby villagers alerted SO SAFE officials stationed at a neighboring village. However, upon reaching the scene, the hoodlums opened fire, resulting in the death of one official and injuries to others.”
The State Police Public Relations officer, Odutola Omolola, confirmed the incident on Friday and mentioned that the wounded Baales were receiving treatment at the hospital.
She stated, “The Baales are in stable condition at the hospital. Unfortunately, the vigilante corps member who responded to the incident with two fellow officers, unarmed, passed away after being shot before medical attention could be administered.
“The identity of the fleeing suspects and the motive behind the attack remain unknown as no belongings were taken from the victims. The police, along with vigilantes, hunters, SO-Safe, and Amotekun, are conducting thorough investigations to uncover more details about the incident.”
An earlier report by NewsNow in January 2024 highlighted a similar incident where gunmen suspected to be herdsmen killed two traditional rulers in Ekiti State. The tragic event occurred near Oke-Ako and Ipao-Ekiti in the Ajoni Local Government Area.
The police command in Ekiti State later confirmed the apprehension of a suspect linked to the killing of the two traditional rulers.