OGUN FAMILY DEMANDS JUSTICE AFTER ALLEGED POLICE SHOOTING OF BREADWINNER

The family of Owolabi Oniyiku, a man allegedly shot dead by policemen attached to a border patrol team in Ipokia Local Government Area of Ogun State, has appealed to the state government and police authorities to investigate the incident and ensure that justice is served.

The family also called for the dismissal of the officers allegedly involved in the incident, accusing them of harassment and extortion along the road. A relative of the deceased, Kolade Oniyiku, said the family was particularly concerned about the circumstances surrounding the death and the absence of any formal contact from the police since the incident.

According to Kolade, Oniyiku had returned to the community to celebrate the Oro festival and was preparing to travel back when he encountered the policemen at Akinde Junction. He said the officers had reportedly seized some motorcycles, causing concern among other motorcyclists who feared that their own motorcycles could also be taken.

Kolade alleged that the deceased approached the officers to ask whether he could pass through their location. He claimed that an argument subsequently developed between Oniyiku and one of the policemen before the officer allegedly opened fire. The family member maintained that the deceased was unarmed and did not engage in any physical confrontation with the officer.

The family expressed disappointment that no police representative had visited or formally contacted them following the incident. Kolade said the lack of communication had deepened the family's frustration and increased their demand for an independent investigation into what happened.

The alleged killing has also triggered tension in the community. It had earlier been reported that some youths reportedly set fire to two police station buildings in the area following the death. The latest development has therefore heightened calls for authorities to address the circumstances surrounding the incident while taking steps to prevent further unrest.

The family is now calling on the Ogun State Government and relevant police authorities to thoroughly investigate the allegations, establish what led to the shooting and ensure that anyone found responsible is held accountable. The family also wants the circumstances surrounding the alleged conduct of the officers along the route to be examined.