The police command in Osun on Sunday confirmed Saturday’s killing of one Dr Richard Adeoriokin, a U.S.-based Nigerian lecturer at Ejigbo. It said a royal guard shot dead the lecturer.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Yemisi Opalola, stated in Osogbo that a suspect had been arrested in connection with the murder.

“Police in Osun are aware of the shooting that occurred at Ejigbo, which led to the death of Dr Richard Adeoriokin. The incident occurred on Saturday after the 50th coronation anniversary of the Ogiyan of Ejigbo, Oba Oyeyode Oyesosin.

“One Prince Eniola Oyeyode of Ejigbo instructed one of his civilian guards named Hammed Jelili to fire his double-barrelled gun into the air to confirm if the gun was in good condition.

“Jelili instead shot directly at the victim, and he was rushed to a hospital but confirmed dead on arrival by a doctor. Prince Oyeyode, who gave the order to his civilian guard to fire the gun, has been arrested and detained. Commissioner of Police in Osun, Mr Bzigu Kwazhi, appeals to members of the public, especially residents of Ejigbo, to remain calm as an investigation into the matter has started,’’ the police officer explained.

Governor Ademola Adeleke stated on Sunday that the governor said killing and counter-killing at Ejigbo during the celebration must be investigated by law enforcement agencies.

“The governor commiserated with the people of Ejigbo and directed law enforcement agencies to investigate the remote and immediate causes of the incident and ensure that the law takes its course,” said the governor’s media aide, Olawale Rasheed.

Mr Rasheed added, “The governor also called for pre-emptive action by security agencies to prevent any possible counter-attack or eruption of violence in the ancient town following the sad incident.

“He urged families of the deceased not to take the law into their own hands and dispatched a high-powered delegation to visit Ejigbo to ensure restoration of calm while investigations continue.”

The governor urged the police to issue guidelines on the use of local guns to ensure the safety and protection of the public. 

(NAN)