Ondo Police Arrest Five Over Alleged Burning of Ifon Station
The Ondo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of five individuals in connection with the burning of a police station in Ifon Community, Ose Local Government Area.
The incident occurred during a protest sparked by the death of Tolu Bobade, a young man who reportedly died in police custody on Saturday, February 16, 2025.
While the protest led to the destruction of the Divisional Police Station, no casualties were reported.
Police Condemn Attack, Launch Investigation
Speaking on Tuesday, Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, condemned the attack on the station and confirmed that an investigation is underway.
“There are legal channels to seek justice. Vandalizing a police station undermines the rule of law. We have arrested five suspects, and they are currently in custody,” Afolabi stated.
The CP further emphasized that Ifon needs a functional police station, and the destruction of the facility was a grave mistake.
Family Alleges Police Brutality Led to Death
Meanwhile, the Bobade family has accused the police of wrongfully arresting and torturing Tolu, leading to his untimely death.
In a statement issued by Dupe Bobade, the family claimed that Tolu was a minor who was apprehended while visiting a sick friend.
“Tolu was arrested alongside others for crimes he knew nothing about. He was brutally tortured in police custody, which resulted in his death.”
The family also alleged that after realizing Tolu had died, the police secretly moved his body to Adelabu Hospital, Ifon, where it was rejected, before transferring it to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Owo without informing the family.
“To this day, the police have not officially informed us of Tolu’s death, nor have they disclosed where his body is,” the statement read.
Community Demands Justice
Residents of Ifon Community have demanded a transparent investigation into Tolu Bobade’s death, calling on Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa to ensure justice is served.
The family also denied reports that youths deliberately attacked the police station, stating that the protest was a response to the police’s refusal to take responsibility for the incident.
As the investigation continues, the public awaits the police’s official explanation regarding Tolu’s arrest and death in custody.
Stay updated with NIGPOST for the latest developments on this case.
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