The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two of its officers in connection with the death of a 35-year-old motorcyclist, Sanni Salisu, which sparked unrest and led to the burning of a police outpost in the Moniya area of Ibadan.
Incident Details
The Command's Public Relations Officer, DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, revealed that the incident occurred on April 24, 2026. The officers, attached to the Kara Police Outpost, allegedly conducted an unauthorized stop-and-search operation within the axis. During the encounter, the motorcyclist reportedly developed what appeared to be an epileptic seizure, slumped on his motorcycle, and became unresponsive. The officers immediately rushed him to Modupe Hospital in Akinyele, where medical personnel confirmed his death.
Unrest and Property Damage
The development triggered tension in the area. Some residents, acting on what the Command described as misinformation, mobilized and attacked the Kara Police Outpost, setting parts of the facility ablaze. During the unrest, property including three motorcycles and a Mazda pick-up patrol vehicle were destroyed, while a police officer sustained severe burns. The police said reinforcements were promptly deployed to the scene, restoring normalcy to the area.
Investigation and Arrests
The remains of the deceased have since been deposited at the Adeoyo State Hospital mortuary, Ring Road, Ibadan, for autopsy to ascertain the exact cause of death. Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police in the state, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbemiga, has ordered the immediate arrest and detention of the officers involved, who are currently in custody. He also directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
Police Appeal for Calm
The Command reiterated its zero tolerance for misconduct, assuring the public that disciplinary measures would be taken in line with extant laws. It also cautioned against the spread of false information, urging residents to rely on official channels for updates and to remain calm as investigations continue. The Commissioner appealed to members of the public to remain law-abiding and refrain from taking the law into their hands, assuring that justice would be served.
