​A violent protest erupted in Ilesa, Osun State, on Saturday morning following the alleged shooting of a 12-year-old boy during an All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally.
​The incident occurred around 10:30 AM on Saturday at the busy Irojo Junction in Ilesa East Local Government Area. Witnesses reported that sporadic gunfire broke out as campaign vehicles associated with the APC rally passed through the commercial district, resulting in a stray bullet hitting a 12-year-old boy identified by residents as Kevwe Adebayo.
​Following the shooting, angry residents and local youths mobilized, erecting barricades and burning tires across major expressways to demand immediate justice for the victim, who was rushed to the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital (OAUTH) Annex in Ilesa in critical condition.
​Osun State Police Command, Speaking on the escalation, the Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Yemisi Opalola, confirmed that security forces have been deployed to restore order in the area.
​”We received reports of a breakdown of law and order around Irojo Junction this morning following an alleged shooting incident. Operatives have been dispatched to calm the situation, and an investigation into the origin of the gunfire is underway. We urge all residents to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their own hands,” Opalola stated.
All Progressives Congress (APC), denying involvement, the Director of Media and Information for the Osun APC, Kola Olabisi, dismissed allegations connecting the party’s convoy to the shooting, characterizing the claims as politically motivated. ​
“Our campaign rally was peaceful and orderly throughout its route. The APC was not involved in any shooting, nor do our members carry arms. Opposing political factions are attempting to frame our party using this unfortunate incident. We sympathize with the family of the injured child and call on the police to conduct a thorough, unbiased investigation,” Olabisi said.
Imole Campaign Council (PDP/State Government), Countering the APC’s statement, the spokesperson for the ruling party’s campaign council, Pelumi Olajengbesi, condemned the violence and demanded the immediate arrest of the perpetrators. ​
“It is unacceptable that innocent children are falling victim to political violence. Witnesses clearly identified armed political thugs within the APC convoy opening fire recklessly. We call on the Inspector General of Police to intervene immediately and hold the perpetrators accountable to prevent further breakdown of peace in Osun State,” Olajengbesi urged.
​As of Saturday afternoon, combined teams of military and police personnel remain stationed at strategic points across Ilesa to prevent further clashes and clear blocked roadways. Local authorities have urged businesses to remain cautious as investigations into the shooting continue.
