… as Police arrest nine suspects
A communal clash has claimed the life of a septuagenarian identified as Madam Rachael Bamidele in the Aagba community in Surulere local government area of Oyo state.
Also, nine houses were razed while properties worth millions of naira were lost to the attacks that lasted for several hours.
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Residents of the affected community were forced to take refuge in the neighboring communities before the swift intervention of the police.
Confirming the attacks in a statement, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo Command, CP Johnson Adenola said nine suspects have been arrested in connection with the attacks.
He added that Boxer Motorcycles have been recovered by the Police.
The statement read, “The Oyo State Police Command has responded to the April 5, 2025, attack on Aagba Community, Surulere Local Government Area.
“The attack resulted in nine houses being razed and properties worth millions of Naira being looted or destroyed. The burning, looting, and destruction of properties appear to have been calculated and systematically carried out, targeting individuals involved in an ongoing civil litigation over the disputed land.
“Also a septuagenarian, one Madam Rachael Bamidele, tragically died in the aftermath of the attack.
“The incident, which forced villagers to desert the village, was allegedly perpetrated by residents of a neighboring community over a long-standing dispute over land.
“Following the recent developments, the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP. Johnson O. Adenola, swiftly deployed the Command’s specialised intelligence and tactical assets, including a unit of PMF officers, to the village to ensure public safety.
“This prompt response brought about a restoration of normalcy, allowing villagers to return to their homes and resume daily activities without fear of harassment or intimidation.
“Investigations led to the apprehension of one Salawudeen Ismaila, aged 33, a native of neighbouring Oko community, and eight other suspects, as well as the recovery of three unregistered Boxer motorcycles. Efforts are ongoing to apprehend other known suspects who remain at large. The indicted suspects will soon appear in court.
“The Oyo State Police Command has reaffirmed its zero-tolerance towards all acts or brigandage or any other act that undermines the efforts of the state government and security agencies and threatens the peace and tranquility of residents of the state.
“It also frowned at any act of self-help by individuals or groups in ventilating their grievances, assuring law abiding residents of the Command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property by employing robust measures to address violations of law and order.”
