Tension as hoodlums attack Lagos Assembly spokesperson Ogundipe

By Ebunoluwa Sessou

There was tension in Oshodi on Monday morning following an attack on the spokesperson of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Stephen Ogundipe.

In a statement, Ogundipe alleged that he was attacked by suspected hoodlums while on his way to address supporters gathered at his office over the purported fake list currently circulating in the media concerning the outcome of the APC primaries in Oshodi-Isolo Constituency-01.

According to eyewitness accounts, the lawmaker was trailed from Charity Bus Stop by four masked men riding on two motorcycles before they intercepted his vehicle around Apakun area in Oshodi.

The attackers allegedly wielded stones and cutlasses, smashing the windshield and side door glasses of his vehicle in the process. Sources disclosed that the quick intervention of his driver, who sped off from the scene, prevented what could have resulted in a more tragic incident.

Ogundipe was said to be physically shaken and visibly traumatised after the attack and is currently receiving treatment at an undisclosed hospital in Lagos.

The Coordinator of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors in Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Kayode Tinubu, who reportedly rushed him to the hospital, expressed anger and concern over the development, describing the attack as unfortunate and dangerous for the peace and stability of Oshodi.

He questioned why political disagreements within the same party should degenerate into violence and intimidation, warning against any attempt to drag Oshodi back into the dark era of crisis and unrest after years of relative peace and stability.

The incident has reportedly been officially lodged at the Nigeria Police Force station in Makinde, Mafoluku-Oshodi, the police have inspected the vehicle where it is parked and the scene of the incident while investigations are said to be ongoing.

The attack has since generated widespread reactions among party loyalists and residents, many of whom have condemned the violence and called for calm, justice, and a thorough investigation into the incident.