In a shocking act of violence, Olawoye Anthony Dawodu, a respected Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist, narrowly escaped an assassination attempt in the last weekend of March 2006 while returning from his sister-in-law’s engagement ceremony in Ibadan, Oyo State.
The brutal ambush, carried out by unknown gunmen, nearly cost Dawodu and his family their lives, underscoring the dangers faced by individuals committed to positive change in Nigeria.
Eyewitnesses recounted how gunmen ambushed Dawodu’s vehicle, opening fire in a hail of bullets that ultimately led to a horrific accident. Amid the chaos, good Samaritans rushed to the scene, pulling Dawodu, his wife, and their children from the wreckage and rushing them to the hospital.
Though physically injured, Dawodu remained resolute. In his statement to the authorities, he alleged that a certain individual (name withheld) was behind the attack, raising questions about the motive behind the assassination attempt.
Speaking to journalists on Thursday, 6 April 2006, Dawodu delivered an emotional yet defiant message:
“Is it a crime to support those I believe can make Nigeria better? Is it a crime to be a good man in society? Is it a crime to be productive in the community?”
His words reflected his unyielding commitment to justice and progress, despite the violent attempt to silence him.
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed receiving a report about the attack to our correspondent but said investigations are currently ongoing. An officer of the command who spoke to The Guardian, but on condition of anonymity, as he wasn’t authorised to speak on the matter, said the Command has invited the suspect named by Dawodu for questioning.
As investigations into the assassination attempt continue, Dawodu’s ordeal has sparked conversations about the dangers of political and social activism, reinforcing the need for a secure and just society.
For Dawodu, the attack was not just a personal assault—it was an attack on his vision for a better Nigeria. But rather than cower in fear, he continues to fight for justice, integrity, and progress.
