Osun Environment Commissioner Arrested Following Shooting at APC Rally in Ilesa
Ilesa, Osun State – In a development that has sent ripples through the political landscape of Osun State, Mayowa Asejoorin, the state’s Commissioner for Environment, has been arrested by the police. The arrest is in connection with a shooting incident that disrupted an All Progressives Congress (APC) campaign rally held in Ilesa on Saturday, August 9, 2026.
The incident, which occurred during a highly anticipated political gathering, reportedly led to panic and chaos among attendees. While details regarding the extent of injuries or fatalities remain scarce at this initial stage, the swift action by law enforcement underscores the seriousness with which the authorities are treating the matter.
According to preliminary reports obtained by TheCable, the police took Commissioner Asejoorin into custody shortly after the rally was thrown into disarray by the sound of gunshots. The exact role he is alleged to have played in the incident is yet to be fully disclosed by the police, but his arrest suggests a direct link to the events that unfolded.
Political rallies in Nigeria, particularly during election cycles, are often fraught with tension, and instances of violence are not uncommon. However, the arrest of a sitting commissioner in connection with such an event is a significant and unusual occurrence, raising questions about political conduct and security measures at public gatherings.
The APC, the ruling party in Osun State, had organized the rally as part of its ongoing campaign efforts. The disruption caused by the shooting is expected to cast a shadow over their political activities and may prompt a review of their security protocols. Witnesses at the scene described a sudden eruption of gunfire, which quickly dispersed the crowd and brought the rally to an abrupt halt.
The Osun State Police Command has yet to release an official statement detailing the charges against Commissioner Asejoorin or the ongoing investigation. However, sources within the police force, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the case, indicated that a thorough investigation is underway to ascertain the full circumstances surrounding the shooting and identify all individuals involved.
The arrest of a high-ranking government official on suspicion of involvement in a violent incident at a political rally is likely to generate significant public interest and debate. It highlights the persistent challenges of ensuring peaceful and secure political processes in the country. This incident could also have broader implications for the political climate in Osun State, potentially leading to increased scrutiny of campaign activities and heightened security concerns.
Calls to the Commissioner’s office for comment went unanswered as of the time of this report. Similarly, attempts to reach spokespersons for the APC in Osun State for their reaction to the arrest have so far been unsuccessful.
This developing story will continue to be monitored closely by TheCable. Further updates are expected as the police investigation progresses and more information becomes available regarding the nature of the shooting, any casualties, and the specific allegations against Commissioner Mayowa Asejoorin. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the need for robust security measures and adherence to the rule of law in the conduct of political affairs.
