Ilobu killing: Family petitions IGP, seeks arrest of eight suspects
Family of Slain Teen Seeks Justice through Police Petition
The family of 14-year-old Ezekiel Olapade has formally petitioned Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, calling for the immediate arrest and prosecution of eight individuals linked to the fatal shooting of its son in Ilobu, Osun State.
The petition, dated June 23, 2026, was submitted by the family’s attorneys, Law Corridor, in response to the teenager’s death during a shooting incident on June 21 in the Irepodun Local Government Area.
Named as the primary suspect is Kareem Saheed, known as “Tanfeani.” The family also identified Ganiyu Habeeb Olaide, Alani Odedowo, Yekini Ismaila, known as “Ayan,” Afeez Abass, known as “SS,” Adejumo Habeeb, known as “Jama,” Afeez Yekini, known as “Feleru,” and Oyeladun Muideen, known as “Akilapa Okinin” as alleged participants in the shooting.
Concerns arose in the community following the incident, during which Olapade was reportedly struck by a stray bullet when armed assailants opened fire near the local government secretariat. Eyewitness accounts indicated that the attackers targeted a palm wine joint directly across from the secretariat, reportedly after spotting a man wearing a cap associated with a political party. Olapade’s mother is believed to be the owner of the establishment, and the teenager was not thought to be the intended target.
The petition states that family members, eyewitnesses, and other residents of the area identified the suspects as those involved in the attack. “Our clients have informed us that following the incident, they, other eyewitnesses, and community members named the individuals who allegedly participated in the attack that resulted in the death of the deceased,” the petition noted.
The solicitors further indicated that the family has provided photographs of the identified suspects and other relevant materials to assist the Nigeria Police Force in its investigation.
They urged the Inspector-General to initiate a “comprehensive, impartial, and professional criminal investigation into the incident” and stressed the necessity of prosecuting anyone found guilty in adherence to the law. The attorneys emphasized the emotional impact of the shooting, stating that it has left the family “devastated” and has shaken the conscience of the Osun State community. They also warned that delays in apprehending the suspects could compromise evidence and expose witnesses to potential intimidation.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed that Olapade died as a result of being shot during the incident, and another individual sustained injuries and was taken to the hospital. Authorities have reported that the suspected leader of the assailants, along with other suspects, remains at large with ongoing efforts to apprehend them.
