Police have arrested Osun State Commissioner for Environment, Mayowa Asejoorin, following gunfire that disrupted an All Progressives Congress, APC, rally in Ilesa on Saturday. Four people were reportedly injured in the incident, including 14-year-old Ilesanmi, who was hit in the thigh by a stray bullet while at his mother’s shop. No death was reported.

The shooting occurred after APC supporters were reportedly attacked by some Accord chieftains during the rally, triggering sporadic gunfire and protests in parts of Ilesa. Eyewitness Kola Adeoti alleged that security personnel accompanying the Accord leaders fired directly at APC supporters. The injured victims were taken to hospital for treatment.

Osun police spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed Asejoorin’s arrest, saying officers moved to the scene after receiving reports of the incident, secured the area and recovered exhibits, including spent cartridges and Amotekun personnel caps. He said the commissioner was taken to the command for questioning as part of the ongoing investigation.

The Imole Campaign Council, through its spokesperson, Pelumi Olajengbesi, condemned the arrest and described it as an attempt to intimidate Accord leaders ahead of the Aug. 15 governorship election. The group called on Inspector-General of Police Tunde Disu to intervene and demanded Asejoorin’s immediate release, while police continue investigating the shooting.