Police dismiss 3 cops over killing of Kwara poly student
By John Ogunsemore
Three policemen linked to the murder of a student of the Kwara State Polytechnic, Abdulqoyyum Abdulyekeen Ishola, have been dismissed from service.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) in Kwara, DSP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi disclosed this in a statement in Ilorin, the state capital.
According to the statement, the dismissed policemen are also to face prosecution.
Ishola, an ND2 student of Electrical and Electronic Engineering department, was on September 4 killed along Panat-ShopRite road, a notorious hotspot for police extortion and harassment.
Following the incident, Daily Sun reported that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, on September 9 ordered the Homicide section of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Abuja to embark on a detailed and comprehensive investigation into the killing.
Giving an update, the Kwara police spokesperson said, “After a thorough investigation and an internal disciplinary trial, the three officers involved – AP/No 233828, INSPR. Abiodun Kayode, AP/No 287410, INSPR. James Emmanuel, and F/No 497868, SGT. Oni Philip, have been found guilty of leaving beat, corrupt practices and unlawful or unnecessary exercise of authority”.
She added, “Consequently, they have been dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force, with effect from 4th October 2024. They will be arraigned in court soonest.”
The police image-maker said this decisive action highlights the unwavering commitment of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to upholding justice, professionalism and accountability across the Nigeria Police Force.
“Under his leadership, we are resolute in ensuring that officers conduct themselves with integrity, and any breach of ethical standards, particularly in cases leading to loss of life, will be met with stiff response.
“The Kwara State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police, Victor Olaiya, extended its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Abdulqoyyum Abdulyekeen Ishola.
“We share in their grief and remain committed to providing them with support during this difficult period.
“We urge the public to always exercise patience and trust in the legal process, as we remain dedicated to maintaining law and order within Kwara State.
“The Command appreciates the cooperation of all citizens and assures them that justice has been served,” the PPRO stated.