Tensions flared in Ifon, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, as enraged youths torched a police station following the death of a young man allegedly in police custody.
According to The PUNCH, eyewitnesses claim that the victim, identified as Tobi Bobade, died after being tortured by officers, prompting a violent response from his associates. The mob reportedly stormed the station, forced the Divisional Police Officer and his men to flee, and set the facility on fire while protesting across the town.
However, the Ondo State Police Command has refuted claims that Bobade died in their custody, insisting he passed away while receiving medical treatment.
Ondo State Police Commissioner, Wilfred Afolabi, visited the scene and condemned the destruction of the station. He ordered a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to Bobade’s death and the subsequent arson.
Police spokesperson, Funmi Odunlami, provided further details, explaining that the incident stemmed from a February 15 altercation between two families on Ogbomo Street, Ifon.
“Officers from Ifon Division, led by an Inspector, intervened and made arrests, but some suspects escaped,” she stated.
Odunlami added that Bobade was later brought to the station by a man identified as Mr. Losilosi.
“He appeared weak and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital for medical attention but was later pronounced dead while receiving treatment,” she said.
His remains have since been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, for a post-mortem examination.
Anger boiled over when news of Bobade’s death spread, with an irate mob—allegedly led by his father—attacking the station.
“The administrative office, the DPO’s office, the station store, and two exhibit vehicles were destroyed in the inferno caused by the mob,” Odunlami disclosed.
Fortunately, no lives were lost as officers swiftly called for reinforcements to secure the premises.
Commissioner Afolabi, who met with the Local Government Chairman and community leaders, extended condolences to Bobade’s family on behalf of the Inspector General of Police. However, he strongly condemned the violent response.
“Such acts of lawlessness will not be tolerated,” Afolabi warned. “All those responsible for this criminal act will face the full weight of the law.”
He urged residents to remain calm and allow the police to conduct a proper investigation, promising that updates on the case would be provided in due course.
