By Adesakin Adefemi
Tension flared in Iseyin on Saturday after a motorcyclist died following an altercation with officers of the Oyo State Police Command’s Border Patrol Unit along the Iseyin/Oyo Road, prompting a brief protest that was later dispersed by police.
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed the death in a statement issued by Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka. He said the incident involved a Fulani man on a motorcycle who became “restive and violent” during an encounter with officers stationed on the highway.
According to the command, a confrontation ensued between the man and the officers. During the clash, the motorcyclist was struck and fell from his bike. He sustained injuries and was rushed to a medical facility, where doctors confirmed him dead on arrival.
The identity of the deceased had not been released by the police as of Saturday evening. The command said further details would be provided after family notification and completion of preliminary documentation.
Commissioner of Police has ordered the immediate detention of all officers involved in the incident. The CP also directed that an autopsy be conducted to medically ascertain the exact cause of death, pending the outcome of a thorough investigation.
News of the death triggered a protest in Iseyin, with residents gathering at the scene to demand justice. The crowd was later dispersed after police assured them that the matter would be investigated and those found culpable would face disciplinary action.
“It is pertinent to note that a brief protest occurred in Iseyin in response to the incident; however, the situation was swiftly brought under control, and the crowd was peacefully dispersed after assurances that justice will be served,” Olayinka said.
The Border Patrol Unit is deployed along major interstate routes to curb crime and monitor movement. The command did not disclose the number of officers detained or their ranks, but said all personnel present during the altercation are in custody.
The incident comes amid renewed national attention on police conduct. A recent case in Delta State, where an officer was arrested for allegedly shooting a restrained suspect, sparked public outrage and was transferred to Force Headquarters for investigation.
The Oyo Command pledged transparency and said a complete brief would follow once the autopsy and internal probe are concluded.
