Ifo market tragedy: Suspects arrested, remanded as LG Chairman vows justice, brokers peace
The Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ifo Police Division, SP Kamorudeen Olabisi, has confirmed the arrest and remand of suspects connected to the tragic killing of Mrs. Blessing Eze, a trader at Ifo Market, which occurred on Friday, June 6, 2025.
Speaking at a peace parley convened by the Chairman of Ifo Local Government, Hon. Idris Olalekan Kusimo, SP Olabisi disclosed that the hoodlums responsible have been arraigned in court and remanded at the Ilaro Correctional Centre. He assured market stakeholders of continued investigations and promised further arrests as efforts to bring all perpetrators to justice intensify.
The meeting, organized to ease tensions following the incident, brought together political figures, security agencies, the Olu of Ifo’s palace, leaders of the transport unions, the Igbo community, and other stakeholders.
Hon. Kusimo denounced the killing as both unfortunate and unacceptable, describing it as a violation of the peaceful values that define Ifo. He ordered a comprehensive investigation to uncover the full circumstances of the incident and vowed that justice would be served.
Offering condolences to the bereaved family and the Igbo community, Kusimo praised Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for his swift intervention and leadership in ensuring calm. He called for peace, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to sustain law and order while preventing future violence.
He also lauded the Nigeria Police, DSS, Amotekun, and other security operatives for their prompt response in stabilizing the market environment.
From the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Inter-Ethnic Affairs, Hon. Monday Chukwuji reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to promoting inter-ethnic harmony and resolving the crisis amicably.
In their remarks, High Chief Theophilus Ikpeghibum, Babaloja of Ndi’gbo Traders, and Chief Willy Okonkwo, Eze Ndi’gbo of Ogun State, both commended Kusimo for his decisive leadership. They also appealed for an end to the extortion and illegal levies imposed by market miscreants, urging Igbo traders to remain peaceful.
Chief Tijani Adesina, representing the Olu of Ifo, described the Igbo community as vital to Ifo’s social fabric. He condemned the violence and pledged the palace’s full support in eliminating criminal elements from the market area.
