BY Samuel Akpan
At least two persons have been killed in Oyo, following a shooting involving operatives of the state chapter of the Western Nigeria Security Network, Amotekun.
Officers of the security outfit had reportedly clashed with some residents of Tapa community in Ibarapa north local government area (LGA) of the state.
Five other persons were said to have sustained injuries and are responding to treatment.
The incident was said to have occurred on Wednesday when the security operatives attempted to disperse some youths who were holding a carnival in the community.
Confirming the incident, Olayinka Olayanju, commandant of Amotekun corps in Oyo state, said investigation is ongoing to determine what exactly happened.
“The operatives attempted to disperse the youths having a carnival in the community when the killings occurred,” he said.
“Some of the youths fired gunshots at our operatives and they (operatives) responded. They destroyed our vehicle just because we were enforcing a ban on carnivals.
“Although two people have been confirmed dead, we are still investigating the incident to have a clear picture.”
Reacting to the incident, Seyi Makinde governor of Oyo, said the state will not tolerate harassment or intimidation of members of the public by members of the corps.
“Following the recent events in Tapa, Ibarapa North Local Government Area, it becomes imperative that I once again reassure the good people of Oyo State that our administration is doing everything in its power to address security issues in our state,” the governor said in a statement issued on Friday.
“One of the strategies we are using to check insecurity in the state is the recently introduced Western Nigeria Security Network (Amotekun). I am fully aware of the alleged highhandedness by some members of the corps. We are investigating these issues to address them promptly.
“The welfare and security of the good people of Oyo State remain our top priority. We will not sit back and watch any harassment or intimidation of members of the public or our security officers.
“Therefore, I urge the good people of Oyo State to please remain calm and allow members of the corps to perform their legally authorised duties for our people’s well-being. Let me assure you that if any corps members are abusing their office, they will be dealt with accordingly.”
The security network, which was set up to tackle rising insecurity in the south-western part of the country, has come under criticism for killing of residents in recent times.
Akolade Gbadebo, said to be a student, was reportedly shot dead by Amotekun operatives at Sabo area of Oyo town.
A police officer was also allegedly shot by Ibrahim Ogundele, an Amotekun officer in December.
While setting up the security outfit, Makinde had said he should be held responsible for the actions of Amotekun corps in the state.
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