Adeleke Adeyinka, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Ward 15 in Abeokuta South, Ogun State, was shot and killed by unknown gunmen in the Oke Ilewo area of the state capital.
The attack, which occurred around 12:30 pm, has left the local community in shock ahead of the upcoming local government elections set for November 16, 2024.
Eyewitnesses reported that the attackers arrived in a tinted glass car and fired multiple shots at Adeyinka before striking him with a stone and fleeing the scene. According to the Ogun State Police Command spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, the assailants were believed to be cultists, armed with a pump action shotgun and a pistol. They carried out the attack in broad daylight, using an unregistered Toyota Corolla Sports car.
“The assailants opened fire, killing 40-year-old Adeyinka Adeleke before they fled to an unknown location,” Odutola said. “Efforts are ongoing to apprehend the fleeing suspects, and normalcy has since been restored in the area.”
The killing has sparked outrage within the APC, especially among the party’s youth leaders. The Ogun State APC Youth Leaders’ Forum condemned the attack, describing it as a “senseless and horrific act” that has left the community devastated. In a joint statement by the forum’s youth leader, Kabir Odedairo, and spokesman, Timothy Odedina, they called for an immediate and thorough investigation into the murder.
“We strongly condemn this senseless act. The fact that Adeleke was shot and stoned to death by unknown assailants in a tinted car is particularly disturbing and demands urgent attention from law enforcement,” the statement read.
The forum also urged authorities to increase patrols and enhance security in the area to prevent further violence, while extending their deepest condolences to Adeleke’s family and friends.
Adeyinka was described as a promising young leader whose contributions to the youth community in Ogun State will not be forgotten.
