The Oyo State Secretariat in Ibadan has been invaded by suspected O’odua Nation agitators on Saturday.
Agitators made a bold move to occupy and overwhelm security forces stationed at the State Assembly complex and the entire secretariat.
Dressed in military camouflage and armed with weapons, they infiltrated the Assembly premises, raising their flag and attempting to take control of the area.
Security personnel at the state secretariat swiftly called for reinforcements, fearing the need to safely contain the agitators.
A tense standoff unfolded, marked by sporadic gunfire, as a coalition of security units, including the Nigeria Police Force, Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, the Department of State Services (DSS), and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), mobilized to restore order and quell the unrest.
Eyewitnesses observed the agitators arriving in an ash-colored Hiace bus and two motorcycles, which were confiscated and transported to the State Police Headquarters.
The gunmen targeted the State House of Assembly premises, replacing the Nigerian national flag with their own O’odua Nation flag before being confronted by security forces.
Though several agitators were apprehended, some managed to evade capture, fleeing into nearby bushes and forests pursued by security personnel. Reports suggest that 16 suspects have been arrested, with two sustaining bullet wounds, while others escaped with gunshot injuries.
Mr. Fatai Owoseni, the Special Adviser to Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Security, assured the public that the situation is now under control, thanks to the coordinated efforts of security forces. He characterized the gunmen as “miscreants” and urged citizens not to be alarmed.
“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 safety of the area. Adewale Osifeso, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in the state, confirmed the incident but noted that he was still gathering details about the situation.
The situation has since been resolved, and investigations are ongoing.