Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun Larooye II
- says “gunmen targeted me”
- “This won’t deter me “
- rallies Osun people to return Adeleke for his performance
By John Dike, Osogbo
The Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Laaroye II, has disclosed how he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt allegedly carried out by armed political thugs, insisting that the incident would not deter him from supporting Governor Ademola Adeleke’s re-election bid.
The monarch made the disclosure on Saturday during an endorsement rally organised by the popular Ajegunle Traders and Artisans Group in Osogbo, where members unanimously declared their support for Governor Adeleke ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
According to the royal father, gunmen invaded his palace and opened fire in what he described as a desperate attempt on his life.
“My palace was attacked. I was obviously the target, all because of our support for Governor Adeleke’s re-election. This is political bitterness taken too far,” Oba Laaroye said.
He disclosed that some of his aides sustained gunshot injuries during the attack and linked the assailants to those responsible for recent shootings in parts of Osogbo.
Despite the incident, the monarch reaffirmed his support for Governor Adeleke, praising the governor’s performance across the state and urging residents to reward good governance with their votes.
“Osogbo people are happy with his performance. As he is performing in Osogbo, he is doing the same in Ede and other towns. We have a duty to reward a governor who has delivered on his promises,” he said.
The Ataoja also appealed for peaceful conduct during the electioneering period, urging politicians and their supporters to shun violence and allow voters to determine the outcome of the poll through the ballot box.
He further called on security agencies to strengthen surveillance and security operations across Osun State to prevent further attacks.
At the event, members of the Ajegunle Traders and Artisans Group openly endorsed Governor Adeleke for a second term through a voice vote, which received overwhelming approval from participants.
Speaking at the gathering, the Commissioner for Commerce and Industry, Rev. Bunmi Jenyo, commended the group for its continued support for the governor and urged members to sustain their mobilization efforts ahead of the election.
Also addressing the crowd, Yeye Dupe Adeleke-Sanni, who represented businessman Dr. Adedeji Adeleke, announced a donation of N80 million on behalf of herself and global music star Davido to support the association’s activities.
She urged members of the group to vote massively for the Accord Party candidate in the forthcoming governorship election.
Responding to the endorsement, Governor Adeleke described the traders’ support as a major boost to his campaign and pledged not to disappoint the people if re-elected.
“Ajegunle tradesmen, you have done it again. I accept this endorsement and I pledge never to let you down. Let us mobilise for an overwhelming victory on August 15,” the governor said.
The event attracted members of the National Assembly, state executive council members and other top government officials.
Alternative headline options:
“Assassins Stormed My Palace Over Adeleke Support, Says Ataoja”
