In a chilling late-night attack that has sparked fresh security concerns in Osun State, the commander of the Amotekun Corps, Adekunle Omoyele, narrowly escaped death after suspected assassins ambushed him in Osogbo on Monday.
According to a statement released by the Corps’ spokesperson, Abass Yusuf, the shocking incident happened at about 10:05 p.m. along Ikirun Road, directly opposite Charity Hotel. Omoyele was reportedly driving home after work when gunmen suddenly opened fire on his vehicle, leaving it riddled with bullets.
Although the commander sustained gunshot injuries, he was able to survive the deadly ambush and is currently receiving medical treatment at a private hospital under tight security watch.
Yusuf described the attack as a “coordinated and targeted assault,” noting that it occurred just hours before another incident where about 15 armed and masked men stormed Omoyele’s private residence. Witnesses said the attackers arrived in a Hilux van and a Toyota Highlander SUV before fleeing the scene.
“This is a direct attack not only on the Amotekun commander but also on the symbol of our community-based security structure,” Yusuf lamented. “It is disturbing that a man dedicated to protecting Osun residents could be hunted in such a ruthless manner.”
The spokesperson further urged residents to remain calm and report any suspicious activity to nearby security agencies. He assured that the Corps would continue its operations undeterred despite the incident.
Meanwhile, the case has been officially reported to the Ota-Efun Police Division, and investigations are already underway to track down those responsible.
Governor Ademola Adeleke has also ordered a full-scale investigation into the attack, describing it as “an unacceptable assault on peace and order.” His directive comes shortly after he mandated a probe into the killing of residents of Akinlalu Community allegedly involving Amotekun operatives.
A top-level government delegation has been dispatched to affected communities to assess the situation and provide updates on ongoing security interventions.
The attack on Omoyele adds to growing fears about the safety of security operatives and the rising wave of violence targeting those on the frontline of community protection in Osun State.