Bella Ifasola
KWARA, Nigeria – Three cops have been dismissed over their alleged roles in the death of a student at Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, South-West Nigeria, police said.
The killing of Qoyum Abdulyekeen Ishola, which occured on September 4, 2024, generated widespread condemnation which led to the transfer of the case to the police headquarters in the country’s capital Abuja by police chief Kayode Egbetokun.
The 21-year-old ND2 student of Electrical/Electronics was allegedly killed during a fuel hike protest by the students in Ilorin.
The implicated officers are Inspector Abiodun Kayode, Inspector James Samuel and Sergeant Oni Philip.
Kwara State Police Command’s spokeswoman DSP Toun Ejire-Adeyemi said in a statement the command noted that the indicted officers were found guilty of corrupt practices, and unlawful or unnecessary exercise of authority in the matter.
Ejire-Adeyemi said the dismissed officers would be arraigned soon.
According to the police spokeswoman, after a thorough investigation and internal disciplinary trial, the three officers involved have been found guilty.
“Consequently, they have been dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force, with effect from 4th October, 2024. They will be arraigned soonest,” the police statement read.
“This decisive action highlights the unwavering commitment of the IGP to upholding justice, professionalism, and accountability across the Nigeria Police Force.
“Under Egbetokun’s leadership, we are resolute in ensuring that officers conduct themselves with integrity, and any breach of ethical standards, particularly in cases leading to loss of life, will be met with a stiff response.”
Ejire-Adeyemi said the state command expressed its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the deceased.
“We share in their grief and remain committed to providing them with support during this difficult period,” she added.