The Oyo State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two officers over the death of a commercial motorcyclist, Sanni Salisu, in the Moniya area of Ibadan.
The death occurred on April 24, 2026 when two officers attached to the Kara Police Outpost allegedly carried out an unauthorized stop-and-search operation in the area.
The death of the motorcyclist which sparked unrest, lead to the burning of a police outpost by mobs.
The spokesperson for the command, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, who disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, 29th April, 2026, said the motorcyclist suddenly developed what appeared to be an epileptic seizure and became unresponsive.
According to the PPRO, the motorcyclist was immediately conveyed to Modupe Hospital, Akinyele, where he was confirmed dead by medical personnel.
He said the development triggered tension in the area and some aggrieved individuals, acting on misinformation, attacked the Kara Police Outpost, setting parts of the facility ablaze.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public of an unfortunate incident that occurred on 24th April, 2026, at about 1100hrs within the Moniya axis of Ibadan,” the statement read.
“Preliminary reports reveal that two police officers attached to the Kara Police Outpost, operating under the supervision of the District Officer (D.O.), were allegedly carrying out an unauthorized stop-and-search operation within their jurisdiction when they intercepted one Sanni Salisu ‘M’, aged 35 years, an okada rider (registration number yet unknown).
“During the course of the interaction, the motorcyclist suddenly developed what appeared to be an epileptic seizure, slumped on his motorcycle, and became unresponsive.
“In a swift effort to preserve life, the officers immediately conveyed him to Modupe Hospital, Akinyele, where he was, however, confirmed d3ad by medical personnel.
“The sudden nature of the incident, unfortunately, triggered tension within the area.
“Consequently, some aggrieved individuals, acting on misinformation and unverified narratives, mobilized and attacked the Kara Police Outpost, setting parts of the facility ablaze.
“During the unrest, property including three motorcycles and one Mazda pick-up patrol vehicle were destroyed by fire, while one police officer sustained severe burns in the course of the attack.
“Upon receipt of the distress report, the Command promptly deployed reinforcements to the scene, leading to the restoration of law and order.
“Following this, necessary procedural steps were taken, including the evacuation of the deceased to the Adeoyo State Hospital Mortuary, Ring Road, Ibadan, where the corpse has been deposited for autopsy to determine the exact cause of death.
“In view of the circumstances surrounding the incident, the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, ordered the immediate arrest of the officers involved, who have since been defaulted and are currently in custody.
“Furthermore, the Commissioner of Police has directed the Deputy Commissioner of Police, State Criminal Investigation Department (DCCID) to carry out a thorough and discreet investigation into the matter, ensure that the autopsy is conducted, and that all those found wanting are appropriately sanctioned in accordance with the law.
“Meanwhile, the Command notes with concern the circulation of false and mischievous narratives on social media aimed at distorting the facts of the incident.
“Members of the public are strongly advised to disregard such unverified information and rely only on official channels for accurate updates.
“The Oyo State Police Command reiterates its zero tolerance for indiscipline and misconduct, emphasizing that any officer found culpable will be made to face the full wrath of the law in line with extant regulations.
“The Commissioner of Police, Oyo State Command, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, psc, mnips, urges members of the public to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding, assuring that justice will be served in this matter.
“He also appreciates the Inspector-General of Police for his continued support and commitment to strengthening professionalism and accountability within the Nigeria Police Force.
“The Command therefore enjoins residents to refrain from taking the law into their hands and to cooperate with the Police as investigations progress.
“The Oyo State Police Command remains resolute in its commitment to the protection of lives and property, as well as the sustenance of public trust.”
