Police arrest suspects over APC ward congress attack in Ondo
Ondo State Police Arrest 13 in Connection with APC Ward Congress Violence
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 13 individuals allegedly involved in a violent disruption of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ward congress that resulted in two fatalities on February 18.
The incident took place in Idanre, located within the Idanre Local Government Area, according to the News Agency of Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Akure, police spokesperson DSP Abayomi Jimoh indicated that the arrests were part of a coordinated operation ordered by Commissioner of Police Adebowale Lawal.
Jimoh stated that the operation underscores the command’s commitment to identify and prosecute all individuals linked to the violence. “The attack led to the tragic loss of two lives, injuries to three others, and damaged property,” he noted.
Following the incident, Lawal directed an intensive manhunt to locate those responsible. According to Jimoh, officers from the Idanre Police Division conducted operations at strategic locations, leading to the arrest of the suspects.
The arrested individuals, all males, are identified as Adewusi, 38; Dele, 28; Akinkurole, 38; Victor, 30; Abbas, 30; Michael, 35; Jolojolo, 36; Ifedayo, 38; Olamilekan, 25; Emmanuel, 25; Sunday, 49; Michael, 55; and Monday, 25.
Currently in police custody, the suspects have provided information aiding ongoing investigations, according to Jimoh. He emphasized that the command is working diligently to understand the circumstances of the attack, identify further accomplices, and clarify the roles of each suspect.
Lawal reaffirmed the command’s commitment to ensuring that all responsible parties face legal consequences. He also expressed gratitude to Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun for his ongoing support and operational guidance, noting that this assistance has bolstered the command’s capacity to address security challenges across the state.
“Commissioner Lawal warns individuals or groups considering actions that could disrupt public peace that the command will act decisively to counter such threats,” Jimoh said. He urged residents of Idanre and all citizens of Ondo State to remain calm and cooperate with the police by providing timely information to enhance safety and security efforts in the community.
