In a tragic turn of events, a police officer, identified as “FREEDOM,” attached to the Nigeria Police Force Area Command in Ilaro, is alleged to have caused the death of Adeleye Eniola, an SS1 student of Mayigi Community High School, Ilashe, during a hit-and-run incident.
The incident occurred as the officer was reportedly in pursuit of a motorist who had managed to evade extortion, an eyewitness pleading anonymity, told Ogunwatch.
The Ipokia Local Government Youth Forum (IPYF), representing the local youth, expressed profound dismay over the unfortunate event, denouncing the perceived inhumanity of the act and raising broader concerns about the professional conduct of law enforcement in the region.
According to the IPYF, this incident is reflective of a recurring pattern of unprofessional behavior by law enforcement officers operating within Ipokia Local Government.
The tragic occurrence prompted a demonstration by grieving students at the Idiroko Police Station, Ogunwatch learnt.
Regrettably, the situation escalated when law enforcement personnel responded with force, deploying tear gas and resorting to physical measures against the protestors. Several individuals who sought to mediate the situation were reportedly arrested, further intensifying the public outcry.
In response to the unfolding crisis, the IPYF has articulated a series of demands aimed at addressing the circumstances surrounding the incident and preventing future occurrences. These demands include the prompt identification and prosecution of the officer involved, an immediate cessation of illegal checkpoints within the locality, and justice for the victim.
Additionally, reports indicate that the Joint Task Force (JTF) was deployed to restore order but allegedly exacerbated tensions by entering Mayigi Community High School, Ilashe, resulting in substantial property damage and intimidation of both teachers and students.
When Ogunwatch reporter contacted the Ogun state police command to confirm the details of the story, the spokesperson, SP Omolola Odutola said that we should await an official police press statement.
“Wait for our official press state my brother,” Odutola said, while refusing the acknowledge the event.
