The Osun State Park Management System has made a shocking allegation against the police, claiming that its chairman, Nurudeen Iyanda, also known as Alowonle, was shot by police while in their custody.
The Osun State Park Management System’s Secretary, Mukaila Popoola, alleged in a statement that Chairman Nurudeen Iyanda was shot by police in the early hours of Tuesday following his arrest for a domestic issue.
Popoola stated, “Our chairman was shot while in police custody under circumstances that demand a thorough investigation. We urge our members to remain calm and refrain from taking the law into their hands. The matter will be pursued through appropriate channels.”
Reacting to the allegation in a statement, the acting Police Public Relations Officer for the Osun Command, Emmanuel Giwa-Alade, claimed that Iyanda was shot while trying to escape from custody.
Giwa-Alade explained that Iyanda had initially been arrested alongside some associates on Monday over allegations of murder, attempted murder, unlawful possession of firearms, and malicious damage.
He said, “A petition accusing Nurudeen Wakili, a.k.a. Alowonle, of these crimes was submitted to the Commissioner of Police and referred to the Anti-Kidnapping Unit for investigation.
Police operatives, acting on credible intelligence, moved to Ring Road, Osogbo, where the suspect and his cohorts were reportedly planning to attack the complainant. On sighting the police, the suspects opened fire but were eventually subdued.
Nine suspects, including Alowonle, were arrested at the scene. However, as they were being transported, supporters of the suspect ambushed the police, forcibly rescuing him and four others, who all escaped while still in handcuffs.”
Giwa-Alade further disclosed that the police traced the suspects to a hideout in the Susi area of Oke Baale, Osogbo, where Iyanda was rearrested.
Detectives recovered a Barrett pistol, six live 9mm rounds, and an empty shell casing during a search of his vehicle.
“He made another attempt to escape during the search but was subdued and shot in the process. He is currently receiving treatment and is responding well,” he added.
