A shocking incident has rocked the Nigerian movie industry as one of its prominent figures, Azeez Ololade Ijaduade, was allegedly shot by a rogue police officer in Iperu, Ogun State.
The actor who is also a movie director and producer, is best known for his role as Ola in the classic Yoruba movie “Jensimi” which he starred in as a child actor alongside his father Waheed Ijaduade.
He is currently fighting for his survival at the Babcock University Teaching Hospital where he was rushed to after the tragic event.
The news of the shooting was first broken by Ijaduade’s colleague and friend, Abiodun Adebanjo, who posted an urgent plea for help on his Instagram story around midnight.
“Please we need help in Iperu. My director, Azeez Ijaduade, @kingzeez1, was shot by a Nigeria Police personnel. He is presently at Babcock University Teaching Hospital. Anybody with the contacts of the Police IG or Commissioner should reach out,” he wrote.
The motive and circumstances of the shooting are still unclear as the Ogun State Police Public Relations Officer, Omolola Odutola, could not be reached for comment in the early hours of Sunday.
Fans and fellow celebrities have taken to social media to express their shock and outrage over the incident, and to pray for Ijaduade’s speedy recovery.
Ijaduade, who has been active in the Nollywood scene since 1992, has featured in several movies such as Iru Esin, Okanlomo, Ise Onise, The Ghost & I, and Broken. He has also produced and directed many others, showcasing his talent and versatility.
