Police in Ogun State have announced the arrest and arraignment of several suspects following the fatal stabbing of a trader, Mrs. Blessing Eze, at Ifo Market on Friday, June 6.
Eze was reportedly killed by touts attempting to collect a “religious levy” ahead of the Sallah celebration.
SP Kamorudeen Olabisi, the Divisional Police Officer for Ifo Police Division, confirmed the arrests.
He made the announcement during a peace meeting organized by the Chairman of Ifo Local Government, Idris Olalekan Kusimo, aimed at de-escalating tensions between the Igbo community and other stakeholders due to the incident.
Olabisi said the touts involved have been apprehended, charged in court, and are currently remanded at the Ilaro Correctional Facility.
He urged traders to report any instances of extortion, harassment, or violence to security agencies, assuring the public that investigations are ongoing and more arrests are expected.
Also speaking at the meeting, Kusimo said a full-scale investigation has been ordered into the killing of the woman.
The investigation, according to him, will unravel the circumstances that led to the death of the trader.
The meeting brought together political leaders, security agencies, the representative of the Olu of Ifo, transport union leaders, the Igbo community, and other key stakeholders to address rising tensions and ensure that justice is served.
Kusimo condemned the killing, describing it as unacceptable and a departure from the values of Ifo’s peace-loving people, and vowed that all perpetrators would be brought to justice.
Extending heartfelt condolences to the family of the deceased and the entire Igbo community, Kusimo expressed deep appreciation to Governor Dapo Abiodun for his timely intervention and fatherly role in ensuring peace in Ifo market and across the entire local government area.
Appealing for calm, Kusimo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to promoting peaceful coexistence, preventing future violence, and upholding law and order.
He commended the Nigeria Police, DSS, Amotekun, and other security agencies for their swift response and ongoing efforts to stabilize the market environment.
Mr. Monday Chukwuji, from the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Inter-Ethnic Affairs, reiterated the State Government’s unwavering commitment to resolving the crisis and fostering inter-ethnic harmony.
High Chief Theophilus Ikpeghibum, Babaloja of the Ndi’gbo Traders, applauded Kusimo’s efforts but called for an immediate end to the illegal collection of fees and extortion by market miscreants.
Representative of the Olu of Ifo, Chief Tijani Adesina, described the Igbo community as peaceful and integral to Ifo society.
He condemned the attack and assured that the palace is taking decisive steps to stop the activities of criminal elements around the market.
Also speaking, Chief Willy Okonkwo, Eze Ndi’gbo of Ogun State, commended Hon. Kusimo for his proactive leadership and efforts in diffusing tensions.
He urged Igbo traders in Ifo market to remain peaceful and maintain harmony with their host community, thanking Governor Abiodun for the commendable work being done across the state.
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