NPF condemns attack on operatives in Edo as IGP orders probe into Oyo traffic tragedy
Police
Abdullateef Fowewe
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has strongly condemned the unprovoked attack on its Intelligence Response Team (IRT) operatives in Edo State, while the Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has ordered a thorough investigation into a tragic traffic incident in Oyo State that claimed the life of a 14-year-old boy.
This was made known in a statement on Wednesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi.
According to the Force Spokesman, in the early hours of Monday, May 20, 2025, police officers from the Force Intelligence Department’s Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) were ambushed by a mob at Okhuimwun Community, Ovia North-East Local Government Area, Edo State.
The operatives were traveling from Lagos when they were blocked by a crowd near the University of Benin (UNIBEN) axis.
The mob attacked the officers with stones, sticks, and other dangerous objects, seriously injuring two personnel.
However, despite the aggression, the officers exhibited commendable restraint by refraining from using force.
The injured officers are currently receiving medical treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.
The NPF warned against such lawlessness, emphasising its commitment to maintaining law and order.
Investigations have commenced, and those responsible will face appropriate legal action.
“The Nigeria Police Force warns against acts of lawlessness and unprovoked aggression against its personnel who are committed to maintaining law and order and hereby assure the public that investigations have commenced, and appropriate legal actions will be taken against those found culpable,” the statement said partly.
Separately, the IGP has ordered a comprehensive investigation into a tragic incident involving the Oyo State Police Command and the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA).
The incident resulted in the death of 14-year-old Kehinde Alade.
The IGP condemned the incident and confirmed that the officer involved has been taken into custody.
He assured the public that the investigation will be transparent and its findings made public to ensure justice.
“The Inspector-General of Police condemned the incident and assured that the officer involved in the shooting has been taken into custody while a full-scale investigation is underway. He equally reiterated that the process will be transparent, and its findings will be made public to ensure justice is duly served as he expressed heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased young man,” it added.
The Nigeria Police Force urged citizens to remain law-abiding and to seek redress through peaceful and lawful means.
The statement concluded, “The Nigeria Police Force reiterates its commitment to the protection of lives and property and urges citizens to remain law-abiding and to channel grievances through lawful and peaceful means.”
