By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

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The Osun State Security Network Agency, codenamed Amotekun Corps has confirmed the death of its officer, identified as Mr Lamidi Abiodun,  reportedly killed by suspected hoodlums who ambushed him at Papa boundary area in Iwo area of the state .

Reports said one vigilante operative was also wounded during a shoot out with some suspected hoodlums who were alleged of attacking a farmland in Iwo .

Weekend Hope learnt that the deceased was killed during an ambush by suspected armed hoodlums yet to be arrested.

The Amotekun Public Relations Officer, Yusuf Iroquois, who confirmed the story said the unfortunate incident occurred on Wednesday.

He said the information came following a distress call from local farmers operating in the Papa Farm area Iwo.

Abass explained that the farmers alerted the Iwo Area Command of Osun Amotekun Corps to an ongoing attack on their farmland.

In a swift response, a team a Amotekun operatives, in company with members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), mobilised to the scene to confront the threat and safeguard lives and property.

“Upon arriving at the location, the team was ambushed by a group of armed men allegedly led by a notorious criminal known as Akeem Olofa,  in the region.

It was learnt that during the confrontation, Mr. Abiodun was attacked. Although initial gunfire did not penetrate his body, he was brutally assaulted with a machete on the head and he died instantly at the scene.

“While most of the operatives managed to escape the ambush, one  Alex Sola was shot on the leg. Also, the whereabout of a  member of the VGN, identified as Nurudeen Alowonle, remained unknown  as of the time of the report. 

The tragic loss of Mr. Abiodun has sent waves of grief throughout the Amotekun Corps and the entire security community in Osun State.

Abass stated: “The incident has been formally reported to the Nigeria Police in Iwo, and the body of the fallen hero has been deposited at a local mortuary for further procedures. Investigations are ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.

“The Osun Amotekun Corps remains resolute in its mission to protect the people and communities of Osun State from all forms of insecurity. We urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Lamidi Abiodun and stand united in honour of his bravery and ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.”