Police dismiss 3 officers over killing of Kwara Poly student
By Dele Moses, Ilorin
Police authorities have dismissed three officers who allegedly unlawfully killed a Kwara State Polytechnic student, Qoyum Ishola, in Ilorin.
The authorities, apart from dismissing the officers from service, also resolved to prosecute them in court over their alleged crime.
The affected policemen are Abiodun Kayode (Inspector), James Emmanuel (Inspector) and Oni Philip (Sergeant).
They repordtedly killed Ishola, a 21-year old ND II student in September during a protest against fuel price hike.
The police, after the report of the killing, took an instant action to calm the frayed nerves by visiting both the family and the school of the deceased to commiserate with them and assure them that justice would be done in the case.
A statement by the spokesperson of the Kwara State Police Command, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said after a thorough investigation and internal disciplinary trial, the officers were found guilty of leaving beat, corrupt practice and unlawful or unnecessary exercise of authority.
It said that the action taken against the officers was in line with the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to upholding justice, professionalism and accountability in the police.
The statement reads: “Kwara State Police Command wishes to provide an important update regarding the investigation into the tragic incident involving the loss of Qoyum Abdulyekeen Ishola on 4th September, 2024. After a thorough investigation and an internal disciplinary trial, the three officers involved –AP/No 233828 INSPR. Abiodun Kayode, AP/No 287410 INSPR. James Emmanuel, and F/No 497868 SGT. Oni Philip; have been found guilty of the following offenses: Leaving Beat, Corrupt Practices, Unlawful or Unnecessary exercise of authority.
“Consequently, they have been dismissed from the Nigeria Police Force, with effect from 4th October, 2024. They will be arraigned in court soonest.
“This decisive action highlights the unwavering commitment of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, NPM, PhD to upholding justice, professionalism, and accountability across the Nigeria Police Force. Under his 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 stiff response.
“The Kwara State Police Command, led by Commissioner of Police, CP Victor Olaiya psc(+), extends its deepest condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of Qoyum Abdulyekeen Ishola. We share in their grief and remain committed to providing them with support during this difficult period.
“We urge the public to always exercise patience and trust in the legal process, as we remain dedicated to maintaining law and order within Kwara State. The Command appreciates the cooperation of all citizens and assures them that justice has been served.”
