Pasuma Convoy Attack in Ikire: How a Day of Music Turned into a Security Flashpoint in Osun State
When Celebration Became Chaos
What was meant to be a joyful evening of Fuji music quickly turned into panic and confusion on Sunday, May 18, 2025, in Ikire, Osun State.
Alhaji Wasiu Alabi Pasuma, the Fuji icon fondly called Oganla,
narrowly escaped a coordinated attack as his convoy approached the town for a scheduled performance.
Within hours, the phrase “Pasuma convoy attack Ikire” began trending across Nigeria.
Glass shattered, shots rang out, and people ran for safety.
Although Pasuma emerged unscathed, the psychological impact on residents remains profound.
This raises important questions: what triggered the incident, who was behind it, and what steps should follow?
The Day Chaos Erupted: A Timeline
2:05 PM – Pasuma’s convoy, led by his signature black Hummer Jeep and a white Hilux escort truck, entered Ikire via the old Ibadan-Ife highway.
2:09 PM – Youths near Oja-Ale market began throwing stones. One hit the Hilux truck, cracking its windshield.
2:11 PM – Two gunshots rang out. According to eyewitnesses, armed youths were visible, prompting traders to close their shops immediately.
2:14 PM – The convoy quickly diverted into Oluode Junction to avoid escalation.
2:20 PM – A video went viral on X (formerly Twitter), captioned: “Kasala don burst for Ikire… God dey!”
It showed people running, a broken vehicle window, and chaos unfolding.
Voices from the Ground: Fear in Everyday Life
“I was just frying akara. Then I heard something bang against metal, and everyone scattered,”
said Rashidat Oyediran, a roadside food vendor.
Kunle Ajani, a tailor nearby, added, “Na Pasuma we wan hail, no be fight. But some boys just started throwing stones.
Before we knew it, gunshots followed.”
Together, their stories illustrate how an ordinary day spiraled into street-level terror.
Why Ikire Matters in the Music Scene
Notably, Ikire has long been a cultural magnet for major artists.
As a midpoint between Ibadan and Ile-Ife, it hosts local festivals, grassroots music events, and religious carnivals.
Pasuma’s visit was part of his “Joy & Juju” South-West Tour, aimed at promoting unity and uplifting youth through music.
His 2022 visit drew thousands. This time, however, the concert turned into a cautionary tale.
Pasuma: More Than a Fuji Star
Born in 1967, Wasiu Alabi Pasuma has built a devoted following.
Besides his musical achievements, he supports underprivileged youth, funds school fees, and distributes food during Ramadan across Osun and Lagos.
Consequently, the attack left many puzzled.
“Why him? He always supports our community,” said Bimpe Adeyemi, secretary of the Ikire Fuji Fans Club.
Security Breakdown: Patterns in Osun
Clearly, this wasn’t an isolated case. Osun State has witnessed a troubling pattern of violence in recent years:
Year Incident LGA Casualties 2021 Ikire–Apomu bank raids Irewole 4 dead 2023 Esa-Oke chieftaincy clash
Obokun 6 injured 2024 Ila Orangun farmland dispute Ifedayo 3 dead 2025 Pasuma convoy attack Irewole 0 reported
Experts argue that youth unemployment, cultism, and political thuggery have contributed to rising violence.
Government Response: Swift or Symbolic?
Governor Ademola Adeleke convened an emergency meeting at the Osun Government House and announced several measures:
Enhanced patrols on Ikire–Ife road and surrounding areas
₦10 million reward for useful leads
A seven-day deadline for community leaders to submit names of suspects
Still, some residents view these actions as temporary fixes.
“We need more than checkpoints. Where is the long-term youth plan?” asked activist Sulaimon Fakorede.
What the Police Are Saying
SP Yemisi Opalola, spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, confirmed an ongoing investigation.
She declined to disclose details about arrests, citing operational concerns.
Meanwhile, residents and journalists continue to demand transparency, as no official briefing has provided clarity.
Youth Reactions: From Fear to Action
Despite the disruption, local youths have responded with resilience.
Several volunteered to clean the streets on Monday, while others started WhatsApp campaigns to report unusual gatherings.
“Na we dey this town. If we no protect am, who go do am?” said David Oyelade, leader of a local youth vigilance group.
What Experts Are Saying
Dr. Olu Ayoola, a criminologist at Obafemi Awolowo University, believes the incident mirrors traffic attacks recently seen in Lagos.
Ngozi Nwoke, a peace mediator, emphasized the need to engage local vigilante groups under strict regulation.
“Grassroots security must be managed responsibly,” she warned.
In addition, Kola Fashola, an event security expert, advised that artists should adopt real-time tracking,
backup convoys, and community intelligence before visiting tense locations.
What Needs to Change?
Fast-track prosecutions: Speedy trials for offenders will serve as a deterrent.
Youth empowerment: Convert abandoned centers into ICT, music, and skills hubs.
Concert security laws: Enforce minimum security protocols for public events.
Better lighting: Install solar-powered streetlights in known trouble spots.
How to Stay Safe at Public Events
Know your exits: Identify at least two exit points at every venue.
Travel in groups: There is safety in numbers.
Hide valuables: Avoid flashy items that may attract attention.
Share your location: Use phone apps to keep friends informed of your whereabouts.
Final Thoughts: From Fear to Forward
Ultimately, the “Pasuma convoy attack Ikire” incident serves as more than just breaking news.
It’s a serious wake-up call. While lives were spared, the event revealed serious cracks in local security and community cohesion.
Rather than letting Ikire be defined by this event, residents have a chance to rebuild and reform.
The conversation should now shift from “What went wrong?” to “What can we all do to fix it?”
What do you think? Was this an isolated event or a reflection of deeper issues?
Drop your thoughts in the comments, repost this article, and help promote a safer Osun State.
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