Osun police investigate alleged shooting incident involving student, family

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

The Osun State Police Command has vowed to investigate an incident involving the alleged pursuit and shooting of a student and his family by law enforcement officers. This follows the circulation of a viral video claiming that the event occurred around 9PM on Sunday in Osogbo.

According to eyewitnesses, a young couple with two small children (aged one and two) were stopped by suspected police officers while the wife was driving.

“An altercation ensued, during which one of the officers reportedly fired shots. Fearing for their safety, the couple attempted to flee; however, they were subsequently involved in a serious accident, crashing their vehicle into a ditch and hitting a man in the process,” eyewitness added.

In response to the incident, police public relations officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, issued a statement on Monday, confirming that the command is taking the allegations seriously.

The statement indicated that the police are currently reviewing operational records and gathering eyewitness accounts related to the incident, which reportedly took place between Itaolokan Junction and Oke Ayepe in Osogbo.

The statement further noted that senior police officials, including the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, have visited the victims at the hospital, saying they are receiving medical treatment, and the police will cover their medical expenses.

He disclosed that the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, has ordered a thorough investigation into the matter, emphasizing that any unauthorized discharge of firearms will not be tolerated.

He vowed that officers found to be responsible for the incident will face appropriate disciplinary action.

“The police command remains committed to accountability, professionalism, and the protection of human rights. They have urged anyone with relevant information, video evidence, or firsthand accounts of the incident to come forward to assist in the investigation, stating that justice will be pursued based on facts and evidence,” police said.

Ojelabi also called on student bodies and other stakeholders to remain calm and allow the investigation process to unfold as required by law.