14-year-old boy shot dead in Osun, father blames killing on suspected political thugs

In a tragic incident that has sparked widespread concern and controversy, a 14-year-old boy was shot dead in Ilobu, a town within Irepodun Local Government Area of Osun State, Nigeria, during the afternoon of Sunday. The killing has raised fresh alarms about security in the region, particularly as the state prepares for the upcoming governorship election scheduled for 15 August. This incident has reignited discussions around politically motivated violence, which has been a recurring theme in the lead-up to this crucial electoral period.

The victim's father, visibly distraught, claimed that the boy was killed by a group of six armed men led by a man named Saheed Tanfeani. According to the father, these individuals arrived in vehicles displaying the campaign colors of Bola Oyebamiji, the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC). The father described the scene, stating that the attackers were accompanied by a man with a scar on his face, and that they opened fire indiscriminately. The father expressed deep anguish, emphasizing that Saheed Tanfeani was the leader of the group responsible for the tragedy.

The incident took place in broad daylight, and sources indicated that police officers were present at the scene. Despite their presence, the authorities did not intervene to prevent the shooting. A video capturing the aftermath of the incident was shared on social media platforms and later broadcasted by Arise Television. The footage showed the emotional distress of the family and highlighted the community's fear and uncertainty regarding the safety of its citizens.

Osun State Police Command confirmed the occurrence of the incident and the death of the teenager. However, they stated that no arrests have been made yet, though several individuals linked to the attack are under investigation. The police spokesperson emphasized that they are actively pursuing leads and hope to apprehend those responsible soon. Additionally, a second victim, who suffered a gunshot wound to the left hand, is currently undergoing treatment at a local hospital. Authorities are hopeful that this individual will recover enough to provide critical eyewitness testimony about the events that transpired.

The political landscape surrounding the incident has become increasingly complex. The APC chairman in Irepodun Local Government Area acknowledged the incident but firmly denied any association between the party and the killing. He insisted that neither the party nor its members were involved in the attack. Furthermore, he clarified that Saheed Tanfeani, who has been implicated in the incident, was not present in Irepodun Local Government Area when the tragedy occurred.

Saheed Tanfeani himself responded to the allegations, denying any involvement in the killing. He claimed that he was in Osogbo throughout the day and that the accusations against him were fabricated. Tanfeani suggested that the Accord Party might be behind the false claims, asserting that they were attempting to frame him for the crime. He also expressed his anger towards those who would lie about such a serious matter and cursed the actual perpetrator of the crime.

Meanwhile, the Imole Campaign Council, which supports Governor Ademola Adeleke's re-election bid, has continued to hold onto its allegations against Saheed Tanfeani. During a press conference, the organization's director-general, Kamarudeen Oyewumi, reiterated that the deceased teenager was not affiliated with any political party and had not been involved in any confrontations prior to his death. This statement further complicates the narrative, as it suggests that the victim may have been caught in the crossfire of political tensions rather than being a direct target.

As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on uncovering the truth behind the incident. With multiple parties involved and conflicting accounts emerging, the need for transparency and accountability becomes paramount. The community awaits further developments, hoping for justice for the young victim and clarity regarding the circumstances that led to such a tragic loss.