The Osun State Police Command has announced the arrest of three suspects over an alleged assassination attempt on Hon. Oluwole Oke, describing the operation as part of its intensified crackdown on cultism, political thuggery and other violent crimes ahead of the state's governorship election.
Speaking during a press briefing in Osogbo on Thursday, Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan, represented at the briefing, said the suspects were arrested following an incident that occurred on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, in Ipetu-Ijesa.
According to the Command, Hon. Oke and members of his political party had visited the palace of the Ajalaye of Ipetu-Ijesa before proceeding to the town hall for a meeting with party supporters.
Police alleged that shortly after the meeting, a group of suspected political thugs and members of the Eiye confraternity blocked the convoy of the visitors. One of the suspects, identified as 24-year-old Olamilekan Oriyomi, allegedly produced a Beretta pistol loaded with four rounds of live ammunition and attempted to point it at Hon. Oke.
The Police said the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), who was part of the security team deployed to the venue, quickly spotted the suspect, subdued him and prevented what could have resulted in a deadly attack.
The suspect was immediately arrested at the scene, while officers recovered the firearm and the live ammunition. Other members of the group reportedly fled before police could apprehend them.
Following further intelligence-led operations by the Command's Violent Crime Response Unit (VCRU), two additional suspects, Ayotunde Ikupolati Ojo, 44, and Fakinleye Femi, 31, were arrested on July 1, 2026, in Ipetu-Ijesa.
Police further disclosed that during interrogation, the principal suspect allegedly confessed to obtaining the firearm from one Busuyi Akinwole Ikupolati, also known as "Omo-Akin," who remains at large. Investigators also said the suspect made statements implicating other influential individuals, adding that investigations are ongoing and efforts have been intensified to arrest all fleeing suspects.
The Command assured residents that anyone found culpable would be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Reaffirming the commitment of the Osun State Police Command to maintaining peace before, during and after the forthcoming governorship election, CP Gotan warned political actors and criminal elements against engaging in violence or acts capable of disrupting public order.
He urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding and continue providing credible and actionable intelligence to security agencies, assuring the public that the safety and security of lives and property remain the Command's top priority.
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