Osun Police dismiss assassination claims against Ataoja of Osogbo
Osun State Police Clear Suspect of Assassination Charges After Palace Intrusion
OSOGBO, Nigeria — The Osun State Police Command has dispelled allegations that a man arrested after breaching the palace of the Ataoja of Osogbo was on an assassination mission.
In a statement released Friday, Police Public Relations Officer DSP Abiodun Ojelabi detailed the findings of an investigation led by DCP Suleiman Kafar Bayonle, head of the Criminal Investigation Department.
The incident occurred on June 3, 2026, at approximately 8:45 a.m. when Semilola Odunayo Monday, also known as Ankara, allegedly scaled the palace fence and entered the premises. Palace residents and staff confronted him, prompting his escape attempt during which he sustained injuries.
Following his capture, the suspect was taken to UNIOSUN Teaching Hospital in Osogbo for treatment. Once his condition stabilized, he was questioned by authorities. According to the police, he admitted to unlawfully entering the palace but denied any intent to harm the monarch or others, attributing his actions to substance use.
At the time of his arrest, the investigation revealed that he was not in possession of any firearms or weapons.
On June 8, 2026, Monday was arraigned in Magistrate Court II in Osogbo on charges of attempted felony and was subsequently remanded at a correctional facility.
The police emphasized that their investigation remains ongoing and encouraged individuals with relevant information to come forward. They reiterated their commitment to protecting lives and property, vowing to address criminal activities effectively.
Last week, Oba Oyetunji publicly claimed an attempted assassination against him, a situation that the All Progressives Congress cited as indicative of deteriorating security in the state.
