Two Killed, Officers Injured in Ikire Violence

On August 25, 2023, a violent incident in Ikire, Osun State, resulted in the deaths of two civilians, Nurení Sobowale, aged 49, and Saheed Akinrole, aged 43, and injuries to two police officers. The violence erupted at the Naira and Kobo area amid an alleged struggle for control of the local motor park.

The Osun State Police Command described the incident as an armed attack on their patrol team by suspected political thugs. According to DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the police were responding to a distress call regarding an alleged abduction when they were attacked by unidentified hoodlums who overpowered them and stole an AK-47 service rifle.

The attackers allegedly used the stolen rifle to shoot indiscriminately, leading to the civilian deaths. Residents, however, disputed the police narrative, claiming the violence stemmed from a clash between rival groups over control of the motor park.

The police have initiated a manhunt for the assailants and are working to recover the stolen rifle.