By Ireti Asemota.
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of three suspects linked to the violent assault on veteran Fuji musician Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere and his crew during a burial ceremony in Okitipupa on Friday, November 21, 2025.
The Incident
Obesere and his band were performing at a funeral at the Government Field in Okitipupa, headquarters of Okitipupa Local Government Area, when suspected hoodlums—led by one Michael Abbey (aka “Emir”)—stormed the venue. The attackers overpowered the media manager, Ayonla Obesere Althentic, who was carrying a bag containing approximately ₦4 million, and fled with it. They also destroyed musical equipment worth millions and stabbed at least one band member while manhandling the singer, despite his attempts to placate them with cash handouts.
The chaos caused panic among mourners, forcing many to flee. Obesere’s team reported the incident to Okitipupa Police Division, condemning it as “criminal and unacceptable.”
Arrests and Recovery
Police spokesperson SP Olusola Ayanlade stated that credible intelligence led to the swift arrests. So far, ₦479,000 has been recovered from the suspects, with investigations ongoing to apprehend additional accomplices.
Okitipupa LGA Chairman Hon. Andrew Soga Ogunsakin reacted swiftly, announcing:
“Upon receiving the report… I immediately swung into action… Three suspects connected to the disturbance have been arrested… Some items said to have been stolen have also been successfully recovered.”
Ogunsakin, who plans to meet Obesere’s management, expressed deep regret: “This is disturbing… a very shameful act as the group of boys, who were known thugs, caused trouble.”
Broader Context
The attack highlights rising insecurity at public events in Ondo State, with residents noting the festival’s usual peacefulness was shattered. Obesere, a Fuji legend, had just become a grandfather earlier in 2025, and the incident has sparked outrage online.
Police urge witnesses to come forward. The suspects face charges related to armed robbery and assault.
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