The Nigerian police have launched a manhunt for Mrs. Dupe Onitiri-Abiola, the widow of late business mogul and prominent politician, Chief Moshood Abiola, for her alleged involvement in the recent attack on the Oyo State Government Secretariat in Ibadan. Onitiri-Abiola is suspected to be a sponsor of the invasion by some Yoruba Nation agitators.
The attack occurred over the weekend when agitators, armed and wearing military camouflage, stormed the Oyo State House of Assembly complex, hoisted their flag, and attempted to breach the governor’s office. The police responded promptly, arresting 21 agitators and recovering firearms and other items from the scene.
Oyo State Police Commissioner, Adebola Hamzat, described the invasion as criminal, unpatriotic, and a clear case of treasonable felony and terrorism. Those arrested face potential charges of treason and terrorism.
Mrs. Onitiri-Abiola’s broadcast in a viral video, where she claimed responsibility for the violence, prompted the police action. Additionally, Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Security Matters, Mr. Fatai Owoseni, acknowledged Onitiri-Abiola’s leadership role in a group of Yoruba Nation agitators.
Despite police actions, some agitators remain defiant, claiming their actions were lawful under the law and necessary for the creation of a ‘Democratic Republic of the Yoruba.’ Governor Seyi Makinde praised the quick response of security agencies in containing the situation.
Authorities in Ondo State and the Southwest Reps Caucus have condemned the attack, with security measures heightened to prevent similar incidents in neighboring regions.
The ongoing investigation aims to hold all responsible parties accountable and ensure the safety and unity of the region.