Fuji star Abass Akande, popularly known Obesere, has narrated how he and members of his team were assaulted by suspected thugs at a burial ceremony in Okitipupa, Ondo State.
The attack occurred on Friday at the government field in Okitipupa LGA shortly after the musician concluded his performance.
In a statement issued by his media manager Ayonla Obesere Althentic, the team said hoodlums surrounded them as they prepared to leave the venue.
“After Alhaji Abass Akande Obesere (Papa) concluded his performance and while we were preparing to leave the venue, large groups of touts surrounded the area,” he said.
He added that one group targeted him because he carried the bag of money realised at the event.
“The assailants demanded that I hand over the bag; when I refused, a violent struggle ensued,” he said.
Althentic recounted how he was beaten and left with a dislocated shoulder while also sustaining injuries from what felt like a knife strike. “I cannot confirm a stabbing wound, but I sustained several blows and am in significant pain,” he said.
He explained that the thugs eventually overpowered him and fled with the money bag. Another group, he said, continued to “manhandle Obesere himself” even after the musician attempted to calm them by offering some cash.
The team managed to get Obesere into a vehicle and took him and Althentic for medical attention.
The statement condemned the incident as “criminal and violent behaviour… unacceptable” at a public ceremony. It added that the matter had been reported to the Okitipupa Police Division, urging authorities to ensure the attackers are brought to justice.
Meanwhile, the Ondo State Police Command said two suspects, Michael Abbey (Emir) and Oniye Oke, have been arrested. Police spokesperson DSP Olayinka Ayanlade said the gang allegedly stole N4 million, a gold chain, a wristwatch, and a handset. He added that N479,100 had been recovered so far.
Ayanlade said the command was still pursuing remaining suspects and working to recover the rest of the stolen items.
While chairman of Okitipupa LGA Andrew Ogunsakin also condemned the attack, describing it as shameful and unacceptable. He said the local government would not tolerate such violence and promised to reach out to Obesere to offer support.
