Angry Ondo Youths Set Police Station on Fire as Suspect Dies in Custody

Angry youths in Ifon, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, have set a police station ablaze following the alleged death of a young man in police custody.

The victim was reportedly tortured after his arrest, leading to his death. In retaliation, his colleagues stormed the station on Sunday, February 16, chased away the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and other officers, then set the building on fire. They also took to the streets in protest.

However, the Ondo State Police Command denied the allegations, insisting that the young man died while receiving treatment at a hospital.

Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Wilfred Afolabi, condemned the attack and ordered a full investigation to determine the cause of the incident and identify those responsible.

Providing details, the Command’s spokesperson, Funmi Odunlami, said the events began on February 15, 2025, with a dispute between two families on Ogbomo Street, Ifon, which escalated into a fight.

“Officers from Ifon Division, led by an Inspector, responded promptly, intervened, and made arrests while some suspects fled,” Odunlami said.

She explained that Tobi Bobade, one of those involved in the fight, was later brought to the station by a man identified as Mr Losilosi.

“He appeared weak and was immediately rushed to a nearby hospital for medical attention but was later pronounced dead while receiving treatment,” she added.

His body has been deposited at the Federal Medical Centre, Owo, for an autopsy.

While officers were still at the station, a mob, allegedly led by the deceased’s father, stormed the premises and set it on fire.

“The administrative office, the DPO’s office, the station store, and two exhibit vehicles were destroyed in the inferno caused by the mob,” Odunlami stated.

No lives were lost in the attack, as security personnel quickly called for reinforcements.

During his visit to assess the damage, the Police Commissioner met with the Local Government Chairman, community leaders, and other stakeholders.

He extended condolences to the deceased’s family on behalf of the Inspector General of Police while strongly condemning the mob’s actions.

“Such acts of lawlessness will not be tolerated,” Afolabi warned. “All those responsible for this criminal act will face the full weight of the law.”

He urged residents to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands, assuring them that investigations are ongoing.