#OndoDecides2024: Panic in Ondo Border Village Over Sporadic Gunshots

Reports have emerged of sporadic gunfire in Ofosun Village, an Ondo community near the boundary with Edo State, causing panic among residents.

Eyewitnesses stated that unidentified individuals fired gunshots into the air early Saturday morning, forcing villagers to stay indoors for safety. A local resident, identified as Dauda, shared, “We don’t know who they are, but they’ve been shooting in parts of the village since morning. Thankfully, no casualties have been reported.”

The motive for the gunfire remains unclear. However, Festus Akingbaso, the Deputy Governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), raised concerns over the presence of alleged hoodlums in parts of Idanre Local Government Area, including Ofosun, Omifunfun, and Allah villages.

Speaking after casting his vote at Imikan Ward 02, Unit 008, Akingbaso alleged that thugs, allegedly linked to the All Progressives Congress (APC), were intimidating voters. He claimed, “There are reports of thugs occupying villages and preventing people from voting. In one instance, a party member’s house in Ofosun was broken into to stop him from voting. Security agencies have been informed, but no action has been taken so far.”

Responding to the allegations, APC spokesperson Steve Otaloro denied the party’s involvement, describing the accusations as baseless. “The PDP is creating issues out of nothing. Voting has been peaceful across these areas. Our party remains committed to peace and will continue to ensure calm during the election,” he stated.

Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Funmi Odunlami, said she was yet to receive any report on the incident, adding that she was currently in transit.

The situation in Ofosun Village has highlighted security concerns as the state conducts its gubernatorial election.

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