Amidst tensions, a clash erupted at the Oyo State Secretariat in Ibadan as suspected Yoruba Nation agitators clashed with security operatives, resulting in casualties and arrests. Eyewitnesses reported masked agitators invading the secretariat, prompting panic among residents and road users in surrounding areas. Security forces struggled to disperse the agitators until reinforcements arrived from the state police command and the Nigerian Army’s 2 Division. Efforts to calm the situation by the Executive Assistant to the Governor on Security were met with resistance as the agitators insisted on hoisting their flag within the secretariat.
The state police command confirmed the incident, stating that 20 suspects were arrested, with seized items including weapons, ammunition, and Yoruba Nation paraphernalia. Describing the incident as criminal and unpatriotic, the command assured residents of its commitment to protecting lives and property. A high-powered investigation team has been deployed to unravel the circumstances surrounding the clash and apprehend all perpetrators.
Meanwhile, Yoruba Nation agitator Chief Sunday Adeyemo, known as Sunday Igboho, distanced himself from the invasion and urged Governor Makinde to investigate and prosecute those responsible. Igboho reaffirmed his dedication to peace and security in the region, emphasizing his refusal to participate in any activity that could jeopardize the peace of Yorubaland.
