There was a moment of panic in Osun State on Wednesday after a podium collapsed during a political rally in Ijebu-Jesa, where several top government officials, including Governor Ademola Adeleke, were seated.
A video circulating online captured the moment the platform gave way while activities were ongoing at the event. The incident occurred during the inauguration of Imole canvassers for the Obokun/Oriade Federal Constituency.
Among those reportedly on the podium when it collapsed were Adeleke, Deputy Governor Kola Adewusi, Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly Adewale Egbedun, and Imole Campaign Council spokesperson Pelumi Olajengbesi.
According to eyewitness accounts, musical performances were underway when the event compere concluded one segment and was about to introduce the next item on the programme before the structure suddenly caved in.
The incident briefly disrupted proceedings as security personnel and aides rushed to assist those affected and evacuate them from the collapsed section of the platform.
A source at the event said the large crowd present may have contributed to the pressure on the structure.
“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,” the source said.
Reacting to reports of the incident, the Deputy Spokesperson to the Governor, Oladele Bamiji, downplayed concerns, insisting that the situation was not as serious as some reports suggested.
According to him, no injuries or fatalities were recorded, and the programme continued shortly after the collapse.
“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.
Despite the brief scare, organisers proceeded with the programme, and Governor Adeleke later addressed supporters at the rally before attending another engagement in the state.
