Reacting to the incident, the Ijesa Sport Club announced the suspension of the landlord pending the outcome of police investigation over attempted m8rder.
A landlord, identified as Chief Gbenga Ajibade, has allegedly forced a young man accused of stealing maize to ingest a poisonous substance at Itetii Ayo in Ilesa, Osun State.
In a video posted by a journalist at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Isaac Haastrup, the young man is seen begging for mercy, citing hunger as the reason for his actions.
Reacting to the incident, the Ijesa Sport Club announced the suspension of the landlord pending the outcome of police investigation over attempted m8rder.
A statement issued on 7th August, 2025 by its spokesperson, Hon. Kenneth Opebiyi, described the suspect’s behaviour as unacceptable and alarming.
“The Executive Committee of Ijesa Sports Club wishes to announce the immediate suspension of Chief Gbenga Ajibade, pending the conclusion of investigations by law enforcement agencies regarding his alleged involvement in a serious incident of attempted m8rder. This action follows allegations that Chief Ajibade attempted to take the life of a fellow citizen over a maize theft accusation,” the statement read.
“During an emergency meeting held on the 6th of August 2025 within the Club premises, the committee expressed grave concerns over the disturbing scenes portrayed on social media, including Facebook.
“The images depicting the events surrounding this incident are not only alarming but damaging to the reputation of our esteemed Club. The committee reached a majority decision to suspend Chief Ajibade until the investigation is finalized, after which he will face disciplinary actions from the club for his unacceptable behaviour.
“The integrity and image of Ijesa Sports Club are of utmost importance to us. We cannot allow any member’s actions to bring disrepute to our organization, which has been built on a foundation of respect and community values over the years.
“It is essential for us to act decisively to protect our Club’s reputation, especially in light of the association that outsiders are drawing between Chief Ajibade and Ijesa Sports Club.
“As a respected institution in Ijesaland, Ijesa Sports Club abhors any behavior that undermines the lives and dignity of fellow citizens. It is our firm position that no individual is above the law, and we stand in solidarity with the values of justice and accountability.”
