Osun police hunt suspects after fatal shooting near governor's visit

Osun State Police have launched a manhunt following the killing of a 60-year-old man, Tajudeen Yusuf, in Osogbo on Wednesday. The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident, stating it occurred around the Ita-Olokan area at approximately 4 p.m.

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Immediately after the visit, one Adebayo Taoreed, popularly known as ‘Small Rugged’, an ex-convict, cultist and suspected notorious thug, attempted to gain access to Davido but was resisted by members of his security team.

The killing took place shortly after Governor Ademola Adeleke visited the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Olanipekun, at his palace. According to preliminary police investigations, the governor, accompanied by his nephew David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, had just concluded the courtesy visit. During their departure, an individual identified as Adebayo Taoreed, also known as ‘Small Rugged’, described as an ex-convict, cultist, and suspected thug, reportedly attempted to access Davido but was prevented by his security team.

This confrontation escalated, attracting other suspected gang members in the vicinity. The suspects allegedly blocked the palace entrance, obstructing movement until the governor's convoy safely departed. Shortly after the suspects left the area, they allegedly shot Tajudeen Yusuf dead while en route.

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The ensuing confrontation reportedly attracted other suspected gang members in the vicinity. The suspects temporarily blocked the entrance to the palace and obstructed movement before the governor’s convoy eventually left the area safely. Shortly afterwards, the suspected gang members reportedly departed the vicinity, and while on their way, they allegedly shot the victim dead.

A police patrol team responded to the scene and found Yusuf with a fatal gunshot wound. He was transported to the University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, where he was pronounced dead. The Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Etaifo, condemned the act and assured the public that the command is deploying all resources to apprehend the perpetrators. The police are urging anyone with information to come forward.

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The Commissioner of Police, CP Samuel Etaifo, condemned the act and assured members of the public that the command would deploy all available resources to apprehend those responsible.