The Oyo State Commissioner of Environment, Mojeed Mogbanjubola, was attacked by suspected hoodlums while leading a team of officials to clear the Mobil, Ring Road area of Ibadan, the state capital, on Monday.
According to eyewitness accounts, the commissioner and his team from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources were in the process of clearing the area of encroachers and debris when they were ambushed by a group of hoodlums.
"The commissioner and his team were doing their job, trying to clear up the area when suddenly, a group of hoodlums appeared and started attacking them," said a witness who wished to remain anonymous. "They used sticks and other objects to pelt the team."
The attack left the vehicles and several members of the commissioner's team injured, with some requiring hospital treatment.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the Oyo State Government condemned the incident, describing it as "an unfortunate event that highlights the challenges we face in trying to maintain order and cleanliness in our environment."
"We will not be deterred by this attack and will continue to work towards creating a better environment for all citizens," the spokesperson added.
The police have been called in to investigate the incident and apprehend those responsible.
This attack is not an isolated incident, as there have been reports of similar assaults on government officials and personnel engaged in environmental cleanup operations in the state.
The Oyo State Government has vowed to remain steadfast in its efforts to create a safe and clean environment for all residents, despite the challenges posed by such acts of violence.