In the early hours of Sunday, a yet-to-be-identified man was fatally shot a few blocks away from the popular Cocobean Lounge in Bodija, Ibadan. Preliminary investigations by the Oyo State Police Command suggest that the incident is cult-related. The police swiftly responded to the scene to maintain law and order and prevent further chaos.
Addressing circulating reports on social media that an onlooker, purportedly a student, was accidentally shot by police during crowd dispersal, CSP Osifeso Adewale, the state’s police spokesperson, clarified: “Emphatically, there were no killings by the Police nor recorded death of any Student before, during, and after the lawful dispersal of onlookers from the scene of crime.”
The case has been transferred to the Homicide section of the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in Iyaganku, with a Deputy Commissioner of Police leading the investigation under the directive of CP Sonubi Ayodele. Enhanced deployment of operational and intelligence assets has been implemented to prevent potential exploitation of the situation by miscreants. The police have assured the public that further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.
This incident underscores the escalating security concerns in Bodija Estate, an area historically known for its residential tranquility. In recent times, residents have voiced apprehensions over the proliferation of nightclubs and lounges, which they claim contribute to increased noise pollution, indiscriminate parking, and a surge in criminal activities. A notable case involved the tragic death of Miss Omoniyi Boluwatife, a nursing graduate from Lead City University, whose body was discovered with her womb removed after a night out at a lounge in Bodija.
The Oyo State government has previously intervened by holding meetings with club owners, security agencies, and the Bodija Estate Residents Association (BERA) to establish guidelines ensuring the harmonious coexistence of businesses and residents. Despite these efforts, challenges persist, prompting calls for more stringent enforcement of regulations and heightened security measures to restore peace in the community.
As the investigation into the recent shooting continues, the police urge residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies to enhance safety and security in the area.
