The All Progressives Congress (APC) ward congress in Ondo State turned deadly on Wednesday in Idanre, Idanre Local Government Area, as two persons were reportedly shot dead by suspected gunmen during the exercise.
Earlier reports had indicated that three persons were injured when violence broke out at the congress venue.
However, fresh information emerging from the area suggests that the crisis escalated, with two fatalities now reported amid heightened tension in the ancient town.
Residents were said to have fled for safety as sporadic gunshots rented the air, creating panic across parts of the community.
Sources also alleged that the younger brother of the State APC Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin—who was reportedly beaten at the party secretariat on Tuesday—was attacked again, while a vehicle was set ablaze during the unrest.
It was further gathered that the convoy of the JPHR was allegedly shot at by the gunmen, though no casualty was recorded in that incident.
Reacting to the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, DSP Abayomi Jimoh, said the Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, had led a team of tactical operatives to Idanre for an on-the-spot assessment and to forestall further escalation.
He added that security had been reinforced in the area to restore calm and maintain law and order.
As of press time, party officials were yet to issue an official statement confirming the casualties.
