NPF Condemns Mob Attack on Police Operatives in Edo, Orders Probe into Oyo Tragedy

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has strongly condemned what it described as an unprovoked and unlawful attack on its operatives in the early hours of Monday, 20th May 2025, at Okhuimwun Community in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State.

According to a statement issued from Force Headquarters, Abuja, with Ref No. CZ.5300/FPRD/FHQ/ABJ/VOL.6/437 and dated 21st May 2025, the attack was launched by an irate mob against operatives attached to the Force Intelligence Department – Intelligence Response Team (FID-IRT) who were in transit from Lagos through Edo State.

The operatives were reportedly ambushed shortly after passing the University of Benin (UNIBEN) axis, where the road was unlawfully barricaded by a group of youths. Armed with sticks, stones, and other dangerous weapons, the mob descended on the officers, inflicting serious injuries on two personnel.

The police authorities noted that, in spite of the life-threatening situation, the operatives maintained exceptional restraint, refraining from retaliating or using force against the attackers. The injured officers are presently receiving treatment and are reported to be in stable condition.

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, mnipr, mipra, fCAI, who signed the statement, cautioned members of the public against acts of lawlessness and unwarranted aggression towards police personnel who are dedicated to ensuring public safety and order. He assured that a thorough investigation has been launched, and those found responsible for the attack would face the full weight of the law.

In a related development, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has directed a comprehensive investigation into a separate and deeply tragic incident in Oyo State, where a 14-year-old boy, Kehinde Alade, reportedly lost his life in a confrontation involving personnel of the Oyo State Police Command and the Oyo State Traffic Management Authority (OYTMA).

The incident, which occurred during a traffic-related altercation, resulted in the fatal shooting of the teenager. According to the police statement, the officer involved has already been taken into custody, and a transparent, full-scale investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting.

The IGP, while condemning the Oyo incident in strong terms, expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family of young Kehinde Alade and promised that justice would be pursued without compromise. He further pledged that the findings of the investigation would be made public in the spirit of accountability and transparency.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, urging Nigerians to remain calm, law-abiding, and to always seek redress through appropriate, peaceful, and lawful channels.