Ondo youths set police station on fire after the young man death

Ondo youths set police station on fire after the young man death In Ifon, Ose Local Government Area of Ondo State, tensions escalated as irate youths set police station on fire after the alleged death of a young man, Tobi Bobade, in police custody. The incident has sparked widespread concern and prompted a full-scale investigation by the state police command.

The unrest began on February 15, 2025, when a dispute between two families on Ogbomo Street escalated into a public altercation. Police officers from the Ifon Division, led by an Inspector, intervened and made several arrests, though some suspects managed to flee the scene. Subsequently, Tobi Bobade was brought to the station by a local resident, Mr. Losilosi.

According to the police, Bobade appeared weak upon arrival and was immediately taken to a nearby hospital, where he was later pronounced dead during treatment. His body has been transported to the Federal Medical Centre in Owo for a post-mortem examination.

In response to Bobade’s death, an enraged mob, allegedly led by his father, attacked the police station, setting it on fire. The assault resulted in the destruction of the administrative office, the Divisional Police Officer’s office, the station store, and two vehicles held as exhibits. Fortunately, no lives were lost during the attack, as security personnel promptly called for reinforcements to secure the area.

Ondo State Police Commissioner Wilfred Afolabi visited the site to assess the damage and meet with community leaders and local government officials. He extended condolences to Bobade’s family on behalf of the Inspector General of Police and condemned the violent actions of the mob. Commissioner Afolabi emphasized that such acts of lawlessness are unacceptable and assured that those responsible for the arson would face legal consequences.

He urged the public to remain calm and avoid taking the law into their own hands, noting that a comprehensive investigation is underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident.

This event highlights the fragile relationship between law enforcement agencies and local communities, underscoring the necessity for transparent investigations and effective communication to prevent the escalation of tensions.