TRENDING
Tension gripped the town of Ikire in Osun State on Sunday as suspected hoodlums launched a violent attack on the convoy of renowned Fuji musician, Alhaji Wasiu Alabi Pasuma.
The incident, which occurred in the Irewole Local Government Area, shocked residents and temporarily shut down businesses.
The attack happened in the afternoon and caught many residents and passers-by off guard. Witnesses said the attackers emerged without warning and began hurling stones at the vehicles in the convoy. Moments later, gunshots rang out, causing panic in the area.
Two vehicles, a black Hummer Jeep and a white Hilux truck, bore the brunt of the assault. Eyewitnesses said both cars sustained heavy damage, with shattered windows and dented bodywork visible after the incident.
“There was noise everywhere. People were running. I thought it was armed robbers,” said a local shop owner who spoke on condition of anonymity. “We had to close our shops and lie down until it stopped.”
As the attack continued, panic spread quickly. Residents ran for safety while traders hurriedly shut their stalls. Vehicles stopped in the middle of the road as drivers and passengers ducked to avoid getting caught in the violence. Children walking home from school were seen running with fear in their eyes, while others hid inside nearby buildings.
Some witnesses said the attackers appeared to be targeting the musician, although the motive behind the assault remains unclear. “It looked planned. They were many, and they focused only on the vehicles in the convoy,” a bystander claimed.
Reports suggest that Pasuma was in Osun State for a musical performance, although full details of the visit were not confirmed at the time of the incident. It is also unclear whether the Fuji star was inside one of the attacked vehicles when the assault occurred.
There was no information on whether any member of his entourage sustained injuries during the attack. The damaged vehicles were later moved away from the scene by security agents and aides.
As of the time of filing this report, the Osun State Police Command had not issued any official statement regarding the incident. There was no confirmation of any arrests, and it is not known if an investigation has started.
The lack of immediate response from law enforcement has left many residents concerned. Several people in the area called on the police to act fast and ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
“We are no longer safe. If someone like Pasuma can be attacked in broad daylight, then who is safe?” said another resident. “We need the government and security agencies to protect us.”
Sunday’s attack has sparked fresh concerns about security in Osun State. The town of Ikire, usually peaceful, has now become the center of public worry. Community leaders have urged residents to remain calm and vigilant while calling for improved security measures.
Some residents fear the incident may discourage public events and visits by high-profile individuals to the area. Others believe the attack was a targeted move by local gangs to send a message or assert control.
“We can’t allow thugs to control our towns,” a local youth leader said. “We want peace, and we want safety for everyone, whether you are a celebrity or a regular citizen.”
While the dust has settled for now, the people of Ikire are still reeling from the shock. Many expect answers from the police and are hoping for swift justice.
The attack on Pasuma’s convoy serves as a reminder of the growing need for security presence in public spaces and on Nigerian roads. Until law enforcement steps up, residents say, the fear may linger longer than the sound of the gunshots.
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