By: John lko.
Ikole Ekiti, Ekiti state.

Tragedy struck in Ikole Ekiti, Ekiti State, as a 29-year-old hairstylist, Ms. Omoleye Olayemi, was brutally killed in what residents and family members have described as a suspected politically motivated attack.

The incident, which occurred on August 25, 2025, at her mother’s residence located at No. 6 Using, Ikole Ekiti, has thrown the quiet community into mourning and heightened concerns over rising insecurity in the state.
Ms. Olayemi, who was born on January 1, 1996, was said to be at home when unidentified assailants stormed the premises and attacked her. She was reportedly killed on the spot.

Family sources alleged that the killing may not be unconnected to the lingering political crisis stemming from a controversial 2022 leadership contest within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) Ekiti State, involving her father.

A relative, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said:
“Olayemi had no involvement in politics. She was a hardworking young woman focused on her career. But because of her father’s political history, the family has been under threat for years. This is a painful and unjust loss.”

The deceased was described as a dedicated hairstylist with aspirations of building a successful business in the beauty industry. Friends and neighbours said she was well known in the area for her humility and determination.
A neighbour who witnessed the aftermath of the attack told our correspondent: “We heard noise and people shouting that night. By the time we came out, it was already too late. Everyone was afraid because we didn’t know who the attackers were or if they would return.”

When contacted, a police source in Ekiti State confirmed that an investigation had been launched into the incident. “We are aware of the case and have commenced investigations. Preliminary findings suggest that the attack may be targeted. We are working to identify and apprehend those responsible,” the source said.

However, residents expressed concerns over what they described as a growing pattern of violence linked to political and union-related disputes in the state.

Observers note that while Ekiti State has historically been regarded as relatively peaceful, recent years have seen an increase in politically linked violence, particularly around grassroots power structures and union leadership contests. These conflicts have reportedly resulted in intimidation, assaults, and, in some cases, loss of lives.

A community leader in Ikole Ekiti lamented the situation, stating: “This is not the Ekiti we used to know. People are now living in fear. Innocent family members are becoming targets of conflicts they know nothing about.”
The killing of Ms. Olayemi has further intensified calls for improved security and justice. Many residents are urging law enforcement agencies to take decisive action to curb the rising violence and restore confidence in public safety.

Meanwhile, the family of the deceased has been left devastated by the loss. According to relatives, the incident has deepened an already existing climate of fear, with some members reportedly going into hiding.

“We have lost a daughter who had dreams and a future,” a grieving family member said. “No one deserves to die like this, especially for something they were never part of.”
As investigations continue, the tragic death of Ms. Omoleye Olayemi stands as a grim reminder of the human cost of unresolved political tensions and insecurity in parts of Ekiti State.