Police Clarify Clash with Amotekun in Akure, Reaffirm Commitment to Inter-Agency Cooperation
By Exponent News Akure, May 5, 2025
The Ondo State Police Command has issued a statement clarifying the circumstances surrounding a confrontation earlier today 4th May,2025 between police officers and operatives of the Amotekun Corps in the Ijoka area of Akure.
The gist:The confrontation reportedly stemmed from a disagreement over which security outfit should take custody of a suspect accused of stealing property from a church near Sunday Bus Stop, along Ijoka Road. The situation escalated into sporadic gunfire, causing panic among residents who fled for safety. Tensions later shifted to the ShopRite Roundabout, close to the Amotekun headquarters, around 2 p.m., where security agencies barricaded and cordoned off the area.
According to a press release signed by DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, Police Public Relations Officer, the incident stemmed from the arrest of a suspect accused of stealing property from a church near Sunday Bus Stop. At about 8:00 a.m., police officers were dispatched from the Ijoka Divisional Headquarters to recover the suspect and secure exhibits at the scene.
The statement emphasizes that the police were first responders to the scene. However, while executing their duties, they were disrupted by Amotekun operatives who arrived with a large group of commercial motorcyclists. In what was described as a “disorderly and commando-like manner,” the Amotekun personnel allegedly took custody of the suspect and exhibits, injuring a police officer in the process.
Commissioner of Police, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, promptly ordered the recovery of the suspect and exhibits through tactical commanders. Peaceful dialogue between leaders of both agencies later resulted in the return of the suspect and evidence to the police.
Tensions, however, escalated momentarily when a few disgruntled Amotekun officers reportedly fired shots into the air in protest against the handover. The police responded with tear gas to disperse the crowd and restore calm. The Command noted that no gunfire exchange occurred between the two agencies.
Reiterating its dedication to inter-agency cooperation, the Police Command called for all security personnel to act within legal and procedural bounds, assuring the public of its continued commitment to peace, safety, and the rule of law.
Inquiries:
Phone: 07032358284
