How Police shot arrested Osun park management chairman

The Osun State Park Management System has alleged that the police shot its chairman, Nurudeen Iyanda, also called Alowonle, while he was arrested.

Police, Osun park management share blame over shooting of chairman

According to a statement released by the group’s secretary, Mukaila Popoola, Mr. Iyanda was shot early on Tuesday morning after being arrested for a domestic matter.

Popoola stated, “Our chairman was shot while in police custody under circumstances that demand a thorough investigation.

“We urge our members to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their hands.

“The matter will be pursued through appropriate channels”, he added.

In response to the accusation, the acting Police Public Relations Officer for the Osun command, Emmanuel Giwa-Alade stated that Iyanda was shot while attempting to flee from detention.

According to Giwa-Alade, Iyanda and a few of his colleagues were first taken into custody on Monday, on charges of murder, attempted murder, illegal gun possession, and malicious damage.

He said, “A petition accusing Nurudeen Wakili, a.k.a. Alowonle, of these crimes was submitted to the Commissioner of Police and referred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for investigation.

“Police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, moved to Ring Road, Osogbo, where the suspect and his cohorts were reportedly planning to attack the complainant.

“On sighting the police, the suspects opened fire but were eventually subdued.

“Nine suspects, including Alowonle, were arrested at the scene.

“However, as they were being transported, supporters of the suspect ambushed the police, forcibly rescuing him and four others, who all escaped while still in handcuffs”, he stated.

Giwa-Alade further revealed that Iyanda was detained again when the police located the culprits at a hiding place in Susi area of Oke Baale, Osogbo.

“During a search of his vehicle, a Barrett pistol, six rounds of 9mm live ammunition, and an expanded empty shell were recovered.

“He made another attempt to escape during the search but was subdued and shot in the process.

“He is currently receiving treatment and is responding well”, he added.

In response to rising tensions, soldiers have been sent to the Ilesa Garage area of Osogbo to maintain law and order.

Passenger boarding has been temporarily suspended due to restrictions placed on activities by armed troops stationed at the motor park.

Osun state

Osun State, located in southwestern Nigeria, is one of the country’s 36 states.

The state capital, Osogbo, serves as the administrative hub, while the population of approximately 4.7 million people (2020 estimate) is predominantly Yoruba-speaking.

Osun state’s economy thrives on agriculture, with cocoa, cassava, and yams being major crops, alongside mining activities, particularly gold and granite extraction, and tourism.

The state boasts several attractions, including the Osun Osogbo Sacred Grove, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and sacred Yoruba shrine, and the breathtaking Erin Ijesha waterfalls.

The Ooni’s palace, the historic residence of the Ooni of Ife, and the Ife Museum, showcasing Yoruba art, culture, and history, are also notable points of interest.

Osun State is divided into 30 Local Government Areas (LGAs), each with its unique characteristics.

Education is well-represented, with institutions like Obafemi Awolowo University (Ile-Ife) and Osun State University (Osogbo).

Politically, the state is led by Governor Ademola Adeleke of the People’s Democratic Party.

Rich in cultural heritage, Osun state celebrates various festivals and traditions throughout the year, including the Osun Osogbo festival, Ife festival, and Olojo festival.

These events showcase the state’s vibrant Yoruba culture, attracting tourists and fostering community unity.

Overall, Osun State’s blend of natural beauty, cultural significance, and economic potential makes it a unique and important part of Nigeria’s diverse landscape.

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