Sunday, July 19, 2026

Two suspects arrested for attacking Obesere at burial in Ondo: Police

Obesere was attacked on Friday by suspected thugs while he and his band were performing at a burial ceremony attended by dignitaries.

• November 23, 2025
Fuji maestro Abbas Akande
Fuji maestro Abbas Akande

The Ondo State Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with the violent attack on Fuji maestro Abbas Akande, popularly known as Obesere, in the Okitipupa Local Government Area of the state.

Obesere was attacked on Friday by suspected thugs at the Government Field, Okitipupa, where he and his band were performing at a burial ceremony attended by dignitaries.

The state police spokesperson, Olayinka Ayanlade, in a statement on Sunday, listed the two suspects as Michael Abbey, a.k.a. ‘Emir,’ and Oniye Oke.

Mr Ayanlade said the breakthrough followed the command’s prompt response to credible intelligence, indicating that Mr Akande was assaulted during the event.

“Further investigations revealed that on 21st November 2025, a group of suspected hoodlums led by one Michael Abbey, popularly known as “Emir,” allegedly attacked the musician while he was performing.

“During the assault, the suspects reportedly stole a bag containing N4,000,000, as well as a gold chain, handset, and wristwatch. The situation escalated when the victim’s manager sustained an injury to the hand after being stabbed with a broken bottle while attempting to intervene.

“During interrogation, both suspects confessed to their involvement in the criminal operation. A total sum of N479,100 was recovered as part of the stolen proceeds. Efforts are currently being intensified to track down the remaining fleeing suspects and recover the outstanding exhibits linked to the case,” Mr Ayanlade stated.

He explained that the command acknowledged and appreciated the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for his unwavering support and strategic guidance, which continue to bolster operational efficiency across Ondo State.

“This encouragement has further strengthened the command’s resolve to deliver effectively on its mandate,” the police spokesperson said.

Mr Ayanlade said the state commissioner of police, Adebowale Lawal, has reiterated that the command will not tolerate any act of hooliganism, thuggery, or violent conduct, especially as the state approaches the festive period.

He said Mr Lawal also assured the public that all individuals connected to this criminal act will be apprehended and made to face the full wrath of the law.

The chairman of Okitipupa LGA, Andrew Ogunsakin, had condemned the violent attack on Mr Akande, insisting that such behaviour does not reflect the values of the Ikale people.

We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.

More from Peoples Gazette

farmers

Agriculture

FG tasks ECOWAS on leveraging financing strategies for agroecology

The federal government has urged stakeholders in the agriculture and finance sectors in the West Africa region to leverage financing strategies to enhance agroecology practices

Katsina State

Politics

Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku

“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”

Prince Adetunji Ogunwusi

Heading 2

Ooni of Ife pays tribute to late elder brother, says his death created irreplaceable vacuum 

The monarch prayed for the departed soul to rest in peace and for comfort for his immediate family, friends, business associates and everyone whose lives he impacted.

Dr Omoniyi Ibietan.

Africa

Information minister congratulates Ibietan on re-election as APRA scribe

Mr Idris described Mr Ibietan’s re-election as a well-deserved recognition of his professionalism.

States

Niger governor donates N100 million to IBBU’s College of Medicine, 41 pioneer medical students

Mr Bagana stated that the 41 pioneer medical students of the institution comprised 21 males and 20 females.

Tinubu with Radda

Politics

2027: Minister vows to mobilise one million votes for Tinubu, Radda in Katsina

Mr Rabe-Darma vowed to mobilise over one million votes for President Bola Tinubu and Governor Dikko Radda ahead of the 2027 elections.

Heading 5

Mamdani considers arresting Israeli PM Netanyahu if he visits New York

Mr Mamdani said his administration’s legal department is weighing the option of arresting the Israeli leader as determined by the law.

Lagos

LAWMA unveils reforms to end waste backlog in Lagos

He said conventional dumpsites were no longer sustainable because of Lagos’ coastal terrain, limited land availability and growing urban population.