IBADAN OYO STATE – Tension gripped residents of First Gate, Owode Estate in Apata area of Ibadan, Oyo State, on April 21, 2022, when angry mob reportedly attacked and vandalised the shop of a local trader Mrs Adeleke, following allegations that her son was caught engaging in same-sex act.
An eyewitness told our correspondent that trouble started when news filtered in that the young man Kehinde was allegedly caught in a compromising situation with another male at Amuludun Hotels & Bar located at Apata, Owode in Ibadan.
The incident according to the eyewitness, sparked outrage as youths in the area demanded that they both be handed over for “discipline”
According to sources, Kehinde managed to escape from the area before the mob could apprehend him. His flight reportedly fuelled further anger, prompting a group of youths to storm Mrs Adeleke’s shop, hurling stones, breaking windows, and damaging goods.
“They said her son has brought shame to the community. Before we knew it, they had broken into the shop and destroyed many things,” said a neighbour who pleaded anonymity.
Mrs Adeleke, speaking in tears, condemned the attack and denied that her son haven’t committed any crime. “I am in shock. They destroyed my source of livelihood. My son is innocent. Even if he was guilty, they had no right to destroy my shop” she told reporters.
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) in Apata confirmed that the incident had been reported. “We are investigating both the allegation against Kehinde and the malicious damage to the shop. No one has the right to take the law into their hands,” the DPO said.
