Osun Police Dismiss Assassination Claim Against Ataoja of Osogbo, Clarify Palace Incident
The Osun State Police Command has dismissed reports alleging that a man arrested after gaining entry into the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo was on an assassination mission against the monarch.
The Command made this known in a statement issued on Friday in Osogbo by its Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, following the conclusion of an investigation by a committee led by the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the Criminal Investigation Department, DCP Suleiman Kafar Bayonle.
According to the police, the incident occurred on June 3, 2026, at about 8:45 a.m., when a man identified as Semilola Odunayo Monday, also known as “Ankara,” allegedly scaled the fence of the Ataoja’s palace and unlawfully gained access to the premises.
The statement noted that palace residents and domestic staff challenged the suspect upon discovery, after which he reportedly fled the scene and sustained injuries during a chase.
“He was later rushed to the UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, where he received medical attention,” the police said.
The Command added that after his condition stabilised, the suspect was interrogated and admitted to entering the palace through the fence but denied any intention to harm the monarch or any other person.
“He stated that he had no intention to assassinate or harm His Imperial Majesty or any other person and attributed his conduct to excessive consumption of a substance,” the statement added.
The police further disclosed that no firearm or offensive weapon was found on the suspect at the time of the incident.
According to the Command, the suspect was subsequently arraigned before Magistrate Court II in Osogbo on June 8, 2026, on a charge of attempted felony and remanded at a correctional facility.
The police noted that investigations into the incident remain ongoing and urged members of the public, as well as palace representatives with useful information, to come forward.
Reaffirming its commitment to public safety, the Command stated that it would continue to ensure thorough investigations and adherence to due process in all criminal matters within the state.
Meanwhile, the Ataoja of Osogbo had earlier alleged an assassination attempt on his life.