The Osun State Amotekun Corps, has denied any involvement in the shooting of a masquerade follower during a cultural festival in Ikirun Ifelodun local government area. The incident, which occurred during the annual masquerade festival, has sparked widespread reactions and allegations, with some reports accusing the Amotekun Corps of responsibility.
The community accused Amotekun Corps of killing a man simply identified as Bukola, a follower of Orogunmeji masquerade.
The incident happened on Monday and the man died on Tuesday at one medical facility in Ikirun. The incident has been confirmed by the Osun State Police Command.
Reacting to the allegations via a press release on May 9, 2025, the Corps Commander of the Osun Amotekun Corps, Adekunle Omoyele, clarified that Amotekun operatives were on the ground at the festival following an official invitation to maintain peace and security.
According to Omoyele, the situation escalated when a group of hoodlums launched an unprovoked attack on one of the Corps operatives.
Omoyele explained that during the scuffle, ”one of the attackers forcefully pulled the trigger of the officer’s firearm, leading to the accidental discharge of a bullet. The bullet tragically struck an innocent bystander identified as a follower of the masquerade”.
“The hoodlums fled the scene immediately after the incident, failing to seize the weapon. Amotekun Corps immediately reported the incident to the Nigeria Police Force, and both agencies have since launched a joint investigation to identify and apprehend the culprits,” the Corps Commander stated.
Omoyele emphasized that contrary to rumors circulating in some quarters, no Amotekun operative intentionally or mistakenly fired at any individual during the event. He described the reports suggesting otherwise as misleading and urged the public to rely on verified information.
The Osun Amotekun Corps also reiterated its commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the state, maintaining that it remains a disciplined and professional security outfit.
“We call on media outlets and the public to seek accurate and verified information before disseminating news that could cause unnecessary panic or mistrust,” the press release signed by Yusuf I. Abass, the Public Relations Officer of Osun Amotekun Corps, stated.
He added, The Nigeria Police Force, in collaboration with Amotekun Corps, is currently investigating the incident, with assurances that those responsible will be brought to justice.
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