Paragraph 1: The Incident and Initial Response
Ajibade Olubunmi, a veteran journalist and high chief in Ilawe Ekiti, found himself in a perilous situation on Saturday, March 15, 2025, while presiding over an enlarged family meeting of the Aderuku House within the Owa Oruku hall in Irorin Quarter. During the proceedings, three imposing men from a separate family group, Ororin House, stormed into the hall, brandishing menacing weapons and directing their aggression towards Olubunmi. The assailants hurled threats and curses at him, and one individual even attempted to draw a pistol, seemingly intent on shooting him. Fortunately, the swift intervention of Olubunmi’s family members thwarted the potential attack.
Upon witnessing the commotion, another group of individuals was observed encircling the hall, further escalating the tension. Recognizing the imminent danger, the family members immediately summoned the police. Three patrolling officers promptly responded to the scene, but the three primary attackers managed to flee along with their associates before they could be apprehended.
Paragraph 2: Police Pursuit and Alleged Interference
Following the attackers’ escape, the police initiated a pursuit and successfully tracked them to their hideout. However, according to Olubunmi, a prominent individual intervened, preventing the police from taking the culprits into custody. This influential figure reportedly assured the officers that he would personally escort the suspects to the police station the following day, Sunday, March 16.
Despite this promise, the culprits remained at large, and the prominent individual failed to fulfill his commitment. Olubunmi expressed his frustration with the lack of action, asserting that the police were well aware of the suspects’ identities, having encountered them at the scene of the attack. He voiced his suspicion that the culprits were being shielded by this influential person, enabling them to evade arrest.
Paragraph 3: The Petition and Plea for Protection
Deeply concerned about his safety and the apparent lack of progress in the investigation, Olubunmi, also the media adviser to the Alawe of Ilawe, Oba Adebanji Alabi, submitted a formal petition to Mr. Joseph Eribo, the Commissioner of Police for Ekiti State Command. In the petition, he detailed the events of the attack, highlighting the imminent danger he faced and the alleged obstruction of justice by a prominent figure.
Olubunmi emphasized the ongoing threat to his life, pointing out that the individuals involved in the attempted assassination were still roaming freely within the community. They continued to taunt him, boasting about their impunity and seemingly confident that they would face no consequences for their actions. He pleaded with the Commissioner to intervene and ensure his protection before these individuals could carry out their "dastardly mission."
Paragraph 4: The Context of the Dispute and Personal Background
Ajibade Olubunmi’s position as the Odofin of Irorin Quarter adds another layer of complexity to the situation. This title denotes a position of leadership and authority within the community, suggesting that the attack may be linked to local power dynamics or internal disputes. While the specific details of the underlying conflict remain unclear, Olubunmi’s role as a high chief makes him a potential target for those seeking to challenge established hierarchies or settle personal scores. His profession as a veteran journalist further adds an intriguing dimension, raising questions about whether the attack could be related to his work in media.
Paragraph 5: The Importance of Swift Police Action
The alleged interference by a prominent individual in the police investigation is a significant concern. If true, it not only undermines the rule of law but also fosters an environment of impunity, emboldening those who believe they are above the law. The police commissioner’s response to Olubunmi’s petition will be crucial in demonstrating that no one, regardless of their status or influence, is exempt from accountability. A swift and thorough investigation, leading to the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators, is essential to restore public trust and ensure the safety of Olubunmi and other members of the community.
Paragraph 6: Broader Implications for Security and Justice
This incident underscores the broader challenges of maintaining law and order in the face of influential figures who may attempt to manipulate the justice system for personal gain. The case highlights the vulnerability of individuals, even those in positions of authority, to targeted violence, especially when local power dynamics and personal disputes intersect. The outcome of this case will have significant implications for the community of Ilawe Ekiti, setting a precedent for how such incidents are handled and ultimately affecting the overall perception of security and justice within the region. A decisive response from law enforcement is crucial not only for the protection of Ajibade Olubunmi but also for the integrity of the justice system and the wellbeing of the community as a whole.
