Tension gripped the Adeta Roundabout area in Ilorin West Local Government Area of Kwara State on Saturday following a violent clash between residents and operatives of the Kwara State Environmental Protection Agency (KWEPA) task force, which led to the death of a young man and the destruction of government property.
The deceased, identified as Waris of Apana Compound, reportedly collapsed after being pursued by a task force official, Tunde Akewu, for allegedly violating environmental laws.
Witnesses said that Waris fell during the chase and was initially rushed to Adewole Cottage Hospital before being referred to the University of Ilorin Teaching Hospital (UITH), where he was confirmed dead.
The incident sparked outrage among residents, some of whom mobilised to confront the task force officials. In the ensuing chaos, the angry mob set ablaze a KWEPA operational Hummer bus.
The crowd, incensed by Waris’s death, also attempted to march on the Adewole Police Station, where Akewu had been detained.
Police operatives swiftly intervened, firing teargas canisters to disperse the protesters and securing both entry points to the station from the Agbooba and Adewole axis.
Speaking on the incident, the Kwara State Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, confirmed the death and the unrest that followed.
He clarified that no police officer was involved in the operation that led to Waris’s demise.
“The death of the young man triggered violent reactions from aggrieved youths who set ablaze a KWEPA operational vehicle and made an attempt to attack the Adewole Police Station.
However, our operatives repelled the attempt and brought the situation under control,” Ojo stated.
The commissioner also disclosed that another KWEPA official was attacked by an irate mob, beaten unconscious, and locked up inside a toilet. He was later rescued by police personnel.
Ojo added that Tunde Akewu had been arrested in connection with the incident and assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway to ascertain the circumstances surrounding Waris’s death.
While calm is gradually returning to the area, the police have urged residents to remain law-abiding and allow the authorities to carry out their duties without interference.
“The command is committed to ensuring justice is served and law and order are maintained,” CP Ojo said.
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