Pandemonium erupted on Saturday in Abeokuta, Ogun State, following the death of a betting agent named Abiodun Anuoluwapo by a trigger-happy police officer late Friday night.
Anuoluwapo, a former student of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic in Abeokuta, was allegedly shot and killed while shutting his Bet9ja store in front of the well-known First Point hotel in the Imala neighbourhood of Abeokuta.
An unnamed eyewitness claimed that before one of the cops fired the shot, the others had been drinking when they exited from the hotel.
The eyewitness also stated that one of the cops unintentionally murdered Anuoluwa, also known as Pepe, who was in front of his shop when they were either conducting a raid or pursuing a suspect.
Additional information revealed that the officers fled into the hotel right away, calling for help as necessary, and then left the establishment three hours later.
According to eyewitnesses, the cops and backup shot sporadically to clear the scene and flee. “The guy owned a shop across from the hotel.”
The police were after someone or on a raid, when there was an unintentional firing, the stray bullet hit the victim, and the guy died instantly.
“The teenagers in the vicinity attempted to restrain the policeman, who fled into the hotel. They had to reinforce to get additional cops to come and rescue them before they could flee around 11 p.m. The incident occurred around 8 p.m.
“While attempting to disperse the protesting adolescents, they continued to fire numerous weapons. In fact, panic overtook everyone. More youths were hit by guns, but they survived. “One of the survivors’ names is Hassan, and he also owns a shop nearby,” an eyewitness claimed.
They also said that police were drinking beer at the well-known hotel and in the vicinity.
The event was confirmed by State Police Public Relations Officer Omolola Odutola when she was contacted.
She however clarified that in order to begin an investigation, the State Commissioner of Police has contacted all relevant parties.
What they’re saying
“We have learned that one Aanu was a victim; the details of what transpired are difficult to pinpoint, but the CP is in contact with the relevant parties.”
“He has made contact with all parties concerned so that we can begin our investigation. We are aware of the situation and have been notified, but we are currently considering our options.”
Bottom Line
The reported behaviour of the officers, including alleged drinking on duty and the chaotic handling of the situation, points to a lack of professionalism and discipline within the force.
This calls for stringent measures to ensure police conduct is above reproach.
