The police launched a search for Mrs. Dupe Onitiri-Abiola, suspected of sponsoring Yoruba Nation agitators who stormed the Oyo State Government Secretariat, as reported by Drivetvnews.
Mrs. Onitiri-Abiola, widow of the late Chief Moshood Abiola, claimed responsibility for the violence in a viral video, prompting the manhunt.
The agitators, armed and dressed in military attire, invaded the Oyo State House of Assembly complex and attempted to breach the governor’s office before being repelled by security forces.
Police Commissioner Adebola Hamzat paraded 21 suspects with recovered arms and ammunition, denouncing the invasion as treasonable felony and terrorism.
While not directly naming Mrs. Onitiri-Abiola, the Special Adviser to the Oyo State Governor on Security Matters, Mr. Fatai Owoseni, acknowledged her leadership in the Yoruba Nation agitation.
Prof. Banji Akintoye, leader of another Yoruba group, distanced his group from the action, hinting at Mrs. Onitiri-Abiola’s involvement.
In a video, Mrs. Onitiri-Abiola claimed leadership of the group, corroborating suspicions.
The police chief detailed the events of the invasion, involving armed individuals proclaiming the ‘Democratic Republic of the Yoruba’, leading to a confrontation with security forces.
Reinforcements from various security agencies suppressed the treasonous act, recovering weapons and other items from the agitators.
Commissioner Hamzat emphasized the imperative of Nigeria’s unity and vowed relentless efforts to maintain it.
He urged parents, guardians, and leaders to dissuade their wards from promoting anarchy, emphasizing Oyo State’s commitment to peace and development.
Arrested suspects have begun revealing their sponsors, with incriminating items recovered from locations within Oyo State.
Hamzat clarified that despite injuries sustained by security personnel and some agitators, there were no reported fatalities during the incident.
