The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspects in connection with the murder of a 26-year-old man, Kehinde Asimiyu, following a fatal altercation in the Olodo area of Ibadan.
The suspects — Taiwo Babarinde, who allegedly inflicted the fatal injury, and Ishola Semiu, suspected of involvement in the incident — are currently in police custody, the police said in a statement signed by its spokesperson, Ayanlade Olayinka, on Tuesday.
Mr Olayinka, a deputy superintendent of police, said the case has been transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Iyaganku, Ibadan, for comprehensive investigation.
According to the police, the incident was reported on 1 November. The deceased was allegedly stabbed with a broken bottle by Mr Babarinde at Olodo Garage following an altercation between the two parties.
The deceased’s family learnt of the attack when an unidentified motorcycle rider arrived at their residence and informed them of the incident.
Upon receipt of the report, police said its operatives, accompanied by a patrol team, immediately mobilised to the scene, while the victim was rushed to Academy Hospital, Texaco, Iwo Road, Ibadan, where he was confirmed dead by the doctor on duty.
“His remains were subsequently deposited at Adejare Embalming Centre for preservation, while photographs were taken as part of preliminary investigative procedures,” Mr Olayinka said.
Unrest at Olodo, security reinforced
Following the incident, police said unrest erupted at the Olodo Police Outpost, nearly resulting in a breakdown of law and order. Subsequent reports of threats by hoodlums further necessitated an immediate reinforcement of security in the area.
Consequently, Mr Olayinka said the Command deployed additional operational assets, supported by personnel of the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other local law enforcement components.
“The coordinated deployment has helped restore normalcy, with a sustained security presence to forestall further disturbances and protect residents.
“While sustaining the intervention, the Commissioner of Police directed the Area Commander, Moniya, to engage relevant community stakeholders towards addressing the situation and preventing a recurrence,” he said.
He said, acting on the directive, the Area Commander on Tuesday held a strategic meeting with representatives of the Local Council Development Area (LCDA), leaders of tricycle and motorcycle operators, as well as youth leaders.
“The engagement focused on identifying practical solutions, strengthening communication with security agencies and promoting peaceful coexistence among residents and other stakeholders.”
Police warn
The Command reassured residents of Olodo and its environs that adequate security measures remain in place to safeguard lives and property.
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It also issued a stern warning to individuals or groups seeking to foment trouble, incite violence or exploit the situation to destabilise the area that such conduct will not be tolerated.
“The Command will decisively deal with anyone whose actions threaten public peace or undermine the security gains recorded across Oyo State,” Mr Olayinka said.
The Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Olugbenga, urged residents to remain calm, shun violence and embrace dialogue as a means of resolving disagreements.
He further encouraged community members to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible and timely information, while reiterating the Command’s determination to sustain the prevailing peace and ensure the safety and security of all residents.
