Police confirm murder of 60-year-old man by suspected gang members in Osun

The Police in Osun State have confirmed the murder of a 60-year-old man, Tajudeen Yusuf, by suspected gang members on Wednesday in Osogbo.

Abiodun Ojelabi, the Police Public Relations Officer, shared this information in a statement on Wednesday.

Mr Ojelabi said the incident took place in the Ita-Olokan area of Osogbo, the capital of Osun State, around 4 p.m. This happened shortly after Governor Ademola Adeleke visited the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, at his palace.

He explained that earlier in the day, Mr Adeleke, along with his nephew, David Adeleke, known as Davido, visited the traditional ruler.

“Immediately after the visit, one Adebayo Taoreed, known as ‘Small Rugged’, an ex-convict, cultist, and suspected thug, tried to get to Davido but was stopped by the governor's security team.

“The confrontation drew attention from other suspected gang members nearby.

“The suspects blocked the palace entrance, stopping movement until the governor’s convoy left the area safely.

“Shortly after that, the gang members reportedly left the area and on their way, they allegedly shot the victim,” he said.

Mr Ojelabi mentioned that a police patrol team was sent to the scene, where they found the victim lying in a pool of blood.

He said the victim was quickly taken to the University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, where he was declared dead.

The police spokesperson noted that the command has begun a full investigation into the incident. They are also working hard to find and arrest the suspects who are still on the run.

Commissioner of Police, Samuel Etaifo, condemned the violence. He promised the public that the police will use all resources to catch those responsible.

Mr Etaifo encouraged anyone with information that could help the investigation to visit the nearest police station or reach out through official channels.

Osun has experienced a rise in violence, including killings across the state, leading up to the recent governorship election on August 15.

While the latest murder may not be directly linked to the recent election, it reflects the increase in arms, ammunition, and thuggery that marked the election period.