…as Suspect says he was under the influence of illicit drugs
By Ismail Azeez
The Osun State Police Command has denied reports of an alleged assassination attempt on the Ataoja of Osogbo, Oba Jimoh Oyetunji Olanipekun, Larooye II, clarifying that the suspect apprehended at the palace was not found with any firearm or offensive weapon.
According to a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the incident occurred on June 3, 2026, at about 8:45 AM, when a 26-year-old man identified as Semilola Odunayo Monday, popularly known as Ankara, scaled the fence of the Ataoja’s palace in Osogbo to gain entry into the premises.
Upon being challenged by residents and domestic staff, the suspect failed to provide a reasonable explanation for his presence and attempted to flee.
During the ensuing pursuit to apprehend him, he sustained bodily injuries and was subsequently rushed to the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital in Osogbo for medical attention.
Following the investigation, which was led by a committee under the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department, DCP Suleiman Kafar Bayonle, the suspect was interrogated after his medical condition improved.
The police revealed that the suspect admitted to jumping the palace fence but maintained that he had no intention of harming or assassinating the monarch or anyone else.
He instead attributed his erratic behavior to the excessive consumption of illicit substances.
The command confirmed that the suspect was not armed at the time of his arrest. In line with due process, he was arraigned on a charge of attempted felony on June 8, 2026, before the Osogbo Magistrate Court II, and has since been remanded at a correctional center.
While emphasizing that the investigation remains open, the Osun State Police Command called on members of the public and palace emissaries with further relevant information to come forward, reiterating its steadfast commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state.
