The Oyo State Police Command has taken two of its officers into custody following the death of a commercial motorcyclist, Sanni Salisu, an incident that triggered violent protests in the Moniya area of Ibadan.
The ঘটনা unfolded on April 24, 2026, when the officers, attached to the Kara Police Outpost, were reportedly conducting an unauthorised stop-and-search operation. During their encounter with the 35-year-old rider, he suddenly collapsed on his motorcycle after what police described as symptoms resembling an epileptic seizure.
According to police spokesperson DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, the officers quickly moved Salisu to Modupe Hospital in Akinyele in an attempt to save his life, but medical personnel later confirmed him dead.
The circumstances surrounding his death quickly fuelled anger in the community, with residents reacting to what police say were rumours and unverified accounts circulating about the incident. The tension escalated into an attack on the Kara Police Outpost, where parts of the facility were set on fire.
During the unrest, several items were destroyed, including three motorcycles and a police patrol vehicle, while one officer sustained serious burn injuries.
Police said reinforcements were deployed promptly to contain the situation and restore order. The body of the deceased has since been transferred to Adeoyo State Hospital mortuary for an autopsy to establish the exact cause of death.
In response to the incident, the Commissioner of Police ordered the immediate arrest of the officers involved and directed a full investigation by the State Criminal Investigation Department. Authorities say the officers are currently in custody and will face appropriate disciplinary action if found culpable.
The command also cautioned against the spread of misinformation, urging the public to rely on verified updates as investigations continue. Residents have been advised to remain calm and avoid taking matters into their own hands, with assurances that justice will be pursued.
