Adeleke escapes injury as podium collapses during rally in Osun

There was panic in Osun State on Wednesday after a podium carrying several top government officials, including Governor Ademola Adeleke, suddenly collapsed during a rally in Ijebu-Jesa.

A 30-second video obtained by Very Nigerian captured the moment the structure gave way while dignitaries were seated on the platform.

Among those on the podium were the governor, Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly Adewale Egbedun, and spokesperson of the Imole Campaign Council, Pelumi Olajengbesi.

The incident occurred while musical performances were underway at the event. Moments before the collapse, the master of ceremonies had concluded one segment of the programme and was preparing to introduce the next activity.

The unexpected collapse caused confusion and briefly disrupted proceedings as those on the platform scrambled to safety.

A source present at the rally, who spoke on condition of anonymity because he was not authorised to comment publicly, said the incident created fear among attendees and interrupted the event. However, no immediate reports of serious injuries were available at the time of filing this report.

He, however, added that the programme later resumed after security personnel evacuated those involved from the rubble.

“The incident happened. The event is the inauguration of the Imole canvassers for Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency. The event was held in Ijebu-Jesa, and the crowd was a bit much.

“The governor and some members of his cabinet were seated in that part of the podium that collapsed. No casualty. The event resumed, and the governor addressed the gathering after the incident,” he said.

When contacted for reaction, the Deputy Spokesperson to the Governor, Oladele Bamiji, said the incident was not as serious as being portrayed.

“The event thereafter went on smoothly with the governor and members of his cabinet. No injuries.

“Had there been any fatal accident, the event would not have continued. There were no casualties. The governor, after leaving the venue, went to another event in Odo-Otin Local Government,” Bamiji said.

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