Oyo Police Launch Investigation into Viral Murder Confession Video
The Oyo State Police Command has initiated a comprehensive investigation following the emergence of a disturbing viral video in which a man, identified as Shawama, claims responsibility for the murders of 32 individuals in Ibadan. The video, which surfaced online and was promptly brought to police attention, features the suspect speaking in Yoruba as he makes these alarming assertions.
Police Response and Initial Findings
In an official statement released on Tuesday, March 17, and shared on the social media platform X, the police command addressed the video's contents. The statement, signed by Police Public Relations Officer DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, revealed that preliminary checks show no record of the man ever being arrested by Oyo State police officers, despite his claims in the video that both police and soldiers had encountered him but allowed him to go free.
Nevertheless, authorities are treating the matter with utmost seriousness. The investigation will leverage advanced digital tools, including forensic analysis and meticulous tracking of online activity, to verify the authenticity of the claims and identify all individuals involved. The police have also made a public appeal, urging community members to come forward with any information that could assist in locating the man or others connected to the case.
Broader Context of Police Investigations
This development occurs amidst a series of recent police clarifications on various incidents across southwestern Nigeria. In Ogun State, the police command denied reports that comedian Broda Shaggi was shot, noting that no such incident was reported at any police station. Police spokesperson DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi emphasized that investigations are ongoing to ascertain the facts, while urging the public to rely solely on official updates.
Furthermore, the Ogun State Police dismissed circulating claims that three suspected hired killers linked to Broda Shaggi's alleged shooting were arrested, labeling these reports as false and unverified. Preliminary reports suggest possible involvement of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) personnel, with the agency confirming it has launched its own inquiry.
In a separate incident, the Lagos State Police Command clarified that an inspector was assaulted not over theft allegations, but during enforcement of a no-parking rule on Brown Street, Oshodi. Police spokesperson Abimbola Adebisi confirmed the officer sustained serious injuries, and thirteen individuals have been arrested for the attack, while the inspector faces disciplinary action for unprofessional conduct.
The Oyo police have assured residents that updates on the viral video investigation will be provided as the probe progresses, underscoring their commitment to transparency and public safety.
