Chaos in Okitipupa: How Fuji Star Obesere’s Performance Turned Into a Night of Violence

What was meant to be a solemn moment of farewell in Okitipupa, Ondo State, turned into a scene of fear and confusion on Friday after popular Fuji musician Abass Akande, widely known as Obesere, was violently attacked by a group of thugs during a burial ceremony. The incident, which unfolded in the presence of scores of guests, has since sparked outrage and concern over rising cases of insecurity at social events across the Southwest.

According to eyewitnesses, Obesere was in the middle of his performance when trouble erupted. Without warning, a gang of armed thugs stormed the venue and headed straight for the stage, disrupting the music and hurling blows at the Fuji icon. Guests who had gathered to pay their last respects to the deceased were thrown into panic as the attackers created chaos, destroying equipment and assaulting members of the band.

The suddenness of the attack left many in shock, with some guests fleeing the scene in fear of further violence. Chairs were overturned, instruments were scattered across the ground, and the once celebratory atmosphere quickly dissolved into confusion. “I attended the event on Friday. It was a disgraceful act,” said Bosede Akinyemi, one of the attendees who witnessed the terrifying scene. “A gang of local thugs caused serious disruption, specifically targeting Obesere and his band while they were performing for the guests.”

Members of Obesere’s musical crew were also badly affected. Reports indicate that several band members suffered injuries, with one of them being stabbed while attempting to shield his colleagues from the attackers. The injured musician was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he is said to be receiving treatment. Sources close to the band described the assault as “unprovoked” and “deeply traumatic,” especially for younger members who had never experienced violence of such magnitude.

Details surrounding the motive of the attack remain unclear, but some guests suspect it may have stemmed from a long-running local rivalry or a dispute unrelated to the musician himself. Others believe the attackers may have been under the influence of drugs or alcohol, pointing out that the pattern of violence at social gatherings in recent times often involves young men recruited by local gangs seeking dominance or notoriety. However, authorities have not confirmed any link to communal tensions or political disagreements.

Obesere, who has built a long-standing reputation as one of Nigeria’s most electrifying Fuji performers, has yet to release an official statement. But those close to him say the artist is deeply shaken by the attack, especially as it occurred at an event where he had been invited to honour the deceased and comfort the bereaved family. Known for his energetic stage presence and ability to thrill crowds, the musician was reportedly devastated to see his band members harmed and his instruments destroyed during what should have been a respectful engagement.

The burial ceremony, which had drawn family, friends, and community members from across the region, was left abruptly cut short. In the aftermath, the organisers expressed regret over the incident, stating that security arrangements had been in place but were clearly insufficient to prevent the sudden invasion of thugs. Residents of Okitipupa are now calling on local authorities to intensify measures to curb the increasing presence of violent groups disrupting social gatherings in the area.

The Ondo State Police Command has not released an official statement regarding arrests or ongoing investigations, but community members say the incident should serve as a wake-up call for law enforcement. With political activities, cultural celebrations, and festive events often drawing large crowds, many argue that better security planning is long overdue.

For fans of Obesere, the attack has sparked concern, with many taking to social media to express solidarity with the Fuji legend and condemnation for the perpetrators. Some described the incident as “a shame to Yoruba culture,” while others questioned how thugs could infiltrate a public burial ceremony without any immediate intervention. The hashtag #JusticeForObesere began trending in several entertainment circles as admirers demanded accountability and protection for artists who remain vulnerable while performing in volatile areas.

This is not the first time entertainers in Nigeria have faced violence during events. Over the years, various musicians, comedians, and actors have shared stories of being harassed, threatened, or physically harmed while performing at public functions. Critics argue that celebrities face heightened risks due to the lack of proper security enforcement at social gatherings, especially in rural or semi-urban areas where such attacks can erupt suddenly.

The latest incident involving Obesere once again highlights the urgent need for stricter crowd control and event security policies in Nigeria. Experts believe that event organisers must adopt more comprehensive security protocols, including the use of trained guards, metal detectors, and controlled entry points, especially when high-profile performers are involved. These measures, they say, could prevent similar attacks and ensure that performers, guests, and residents are safe from unexpected outbreaks of violence.

Meanwhile, residents of Okitipupa continue to share their shock and disappointment. Many are still grappling with the reality that a peaceful burial ceremony could be transformed into a scene of bloodshed within minutes. Some community elders have called for traditional leaders to intervene and help restore calm, while younger residents are urging authorities to identify and arrest the culprits to prevent further deterioration of security in the region.

As Nigeria grapples with the broader issue of insecurity, incidents like this serve as a stark reminder that no environment — not even a burial ceremony — is immune to violence. For Obesere and his band, the traumatic experience has left scars that extend beyond physical injury, raising questions about the safety of entertainers who risk their lives while trying to bring joy and entertainment to communities.

The music star’s fans now await a response from authorities, hoping that the perpetrators will be brought to justice and that measures will be put in place to protect artists during performances. For now, the shocking events at Okitipupa stand as yet another example of how insecurity continues to cast a shadow over everyday life, leaving many Nigerians anxious, frustrated, and yearning for a country where such acts of violence no longer overshadow their cultural and social gatherings.