Two killed, Police station razed

Ondo CP condemns attacks, orders investigation

Ose council chair, group sue for peace

By Tola Gbadamosi, Ayodele Popoola & Adeboye Ado

Some angry youths, on Saturday, burnt a police station in Ifon, the headquarters of Ose Local Government area of Ondo State, over an allegation of police torturing a boy, Tobi Bobade to death.

According to the report, the irked youths in the community in their numbers, on Sunday who took to the streets in protest, stormed the police station, allegedly chased away officers on duty, and set the station ablaze.

The Hope gathered that the incident led to a clash between the protesters and the police where one Bamise was shot to death

Another source reveals that the crisis began with a fight among some young individuals on Valentine’s Day.

One party reported the incident to the police, leading to the arrest of two members of the opposing group.

These two individuals were allegedly subjected to severe torture. Tragically, one of them died in custody yesterday morning, while the other remains in a coma at the hospital.

Angered by the death of their friend and family member, the victim’s group retaliated by attacking the home of the person who reported them to the police, setting the house on fire.

A stakeholder in the community, Adewoyi Ipinlade expressed disappointment and condemned the police’s handling of the situation, particularly the alleged killing of the suspect.

“We are not pleased with the way the police handled the situation, even to the extent of killing a suspect.

“Following this, the youths proceeded to the Ifon Divisional Police Station, where they reportedly chased away all officers, including the Divisional Police Officer, before setting the station on fire.

 “However, we are making efforts to calm the situation and restore order in the community,” he said.

When a team of policemen was dispatched to restore order, they clashed with the protesters, resulting in the death of one Bamise who was shot to death.

The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, was said to have visited the scene to assess the situation and restore normalcy.

 The CP in a statement on Sunday, signed by the command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO), CSP Funmilayo Odunlami, strongly condemned the attack and arson on the police station.

The statement ordered a full-scale investigation to ascertain the circumstances that led to the incident and bring those responsible to justice.

Afolabi,  on behalf of the Inspector General of  Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun commiserated with the family of the deceased and condemned the attack on the station as he vowed that such acts of lawlessness will not be tolerated.

 He further assured that all those responsible for the criminal act will face the full weight of the law.

The statement reads: ‘Preliminary reports indicate that the incident began on 15th February 2025 when a dispute between two families on Ogbomo Street, Ifon, escalated into a public fight. Officers from the Ifon Division, led by an Inspector, responded promptly, moved to the scene, intervened, and made arrests while some suspects fled.

“Later, one Tobi Bobade, one of the young men involved in the fight was brought to the station by one Mr. Losilosi. He appeared weak and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention., he was later pronounced dead while receiving treatment. His remains have been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, for a post-mortem examination.

“While officers were at the station, an angry mob, led by the deceased’s father, launched a violent attack on the station, the administrative office, DPOs office, the station store and two (2) exhibit vehicles were affected by the inferno caused by the mob.

“Fortunately, no lives were lost in the fire as security personnel acted swiftly and called for reinforcements to secure the premises.”

The Police boss while meeting with the Chairman of the local government and community leaders urged members of the public to remain calm and refrain from taking the laws into their hands.

Meanwhile, the Chairman-elect of Ose Local Government area, Mr. Clement Ojo, has urged residents to maintain peace in the wake of the violent unrest that led to the burning of the Ifon Divisional Police Station.

In a statement released on Sunday, Ojo who expressed concern over the unfortunate incident, sympathised with the families of the victim.

While acknowledging the frustration that triggered the unrest, he noted the importance of seeking justice through peaceful means rather than resorting to violence, which could further destabilize the community.

“I understand the pain and anger behind these actions.” However, I appeal to everyone to embrace peace and avoid destructive measures. Violence is not the solution, and I assure you that the government is actively addressing the situation,” he stated.

He reassured the public that investigations are ongoing and that appropriate steps will be taken to ensure justice. 

Also, he reaffirmed his commitment to upholding security, fairness, and the protection of citizens’ rights once his administration takes office.

Ojo called on the youths in Ifon and across the Local Government area to channel their concerns through lawful and constructive means, stressing that unity and cooperation are vital for community development.

“Let us come together to demand justice and progress without tearing down the institutions designed to serve and protect us,” he urged. 

“May peace and stability return to Ifon and the entire Ose Local Government.”

Similarly, the Ose Youths Progressive Movement (OYPM) has described the ugly incident as a devastating blow to the community.

In a statement signed by OYPM National Chairman, Oluwaseun Ogunniyi and Secretary, Ogunrinde Vincent, the group extended heartfelt condolences to the affected families.

OYPM also condemned the alleged actions of the Nigerian Police Force officers involved in the incident, labeling their conduct as unprofessional.

The group also demanded accountability from the police authorities and stressed the urgent need for justice.