The Osun State Government has condemned what it describes as an attempted murder of Comrade Iyanda Alowonle, the Chairman of the Osun Transport Management System (OSTMS), while in police custody.
Alowonle, who suffered a gunshot wound to the abdomen, is currently on life support at the Intensive Care Unit of the Osun State Teaching Hospital, Osogbo.
In a statement released by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the government expressed outrage over the incident, emphasizing that Alowonle was shot while under police interrogation. Video evidence circulating online purportedly disproves claims that Alowonle was attempting to escape, depicting the shooting as a deliberate act.
The government claims interactions between the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Mr. Samuel Ojo, and Moses Lohor, Head of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad, further substantiate that the shooting was premeditated. The issue leading to Alowonle’s arrest was reportedly a civil matter, not warranting the involvement of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad.
The statement highlights a growing pattern of alleged police harassment of state officials, describing this incident as part of a series of politically motivated attacks. The Osun government called for the arrest, transfer, and prosecution of Moses Lohor and urged the Inspector General of Police and the National Security Adviser to address the increasing threat posed by certain police officers to peace and stability in the state.
Amid calls for justice and police impartiality, the government also warned of potential unrest due to public outrage over perceived police misconduct, appealing for calm while pressing for a thorough investigation into the incident.
PRESS STATEMENT
PARK MANAGEMENT CHAIRMAN, COMRADE NURUDEEN ALOWONLE SHOT IN POLICE CUSTODY
The Osun State Park Management System has announced the shooting in police custody of its State Chairman, Comrade Nurudeen Iyanda, in the wee hours of last night.
In a statement signed by the State Secretary, Mikaela Popoola, the OSTMS said its chairman was arrested over domestic issues and was taken to the police custody.
Our chairman was shot at police custody under circumstances that call for thorough investigations.
We call on our members not to take laws into their hands. We must maintain peace across the parks while we take the matter up with the appropriate authorities.
Signed:
Alhaji Mukaila Popoola,
State Secretary,
OSTMS.
19/11/2024
