Police arrest four over killing of Kwara community chief imam

The Kwara State Police Command has arrested four suspects in connection with the killing of the Chief Imam of Sokunkpan village in Tsaragi, Edu Local Government Area of the state.

The command’s spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, disclosed this to PUNCH Online in a statement on Thursday, saying the incident occurred on November 4, 2025, around 9:30 p.m.

According to the statement, the crisis erupted after the death of a 25-year-old man, Ibrahim Gana, who had been on admission at a hospital in the area.

Following his demise, his brothers Mohammed Shaba and Mahmud Gana allegedly accused the village’s Chief Imam, Alhaji Abdullahi Audu, of being responsible for his death.

In an act of mob violence, the suspects mobilised several other individuals and attacked the Chief Imam with offensive weapons, leading to his death,” the statement partly read.

Ejire-Adeyemi said police operatives responded swiftly, leading to the arrest of four suspects, while efforts were ongoing to apprehend others involved in the attack.

“Four suspects have been arrested, and the command has commenced a full investigation into the incident. We assure the public that justice will be served,” she added.

The state Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, condemned the act of jungle justice and warned residents against taking the law into their own hands, describing such behaviour as “criminal and punishable under Nigerian law.”

He said, “No one has the right to take another person’s life under any guise. Resorting to mob action only creates more tragedy and chaos.

“The command will not tolerate acts of lawlessness. Anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.”

The police boss also urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with the authorities by providing useful information that could aid the investigation.

“We appeal to members of the public to report any suspicious activity or individuals to the nearest police station or through the command’s designated emergency channels,” he added.

Ojo assured residents of Kwara State that the police remain committed to ensuring peace, safety, and order across all communities, particularly in Edu LGA, where the incident occurred.

“The Kwara State Police Command under my leadership will continue to uphold professionalism, integrity, and accountability in all its operations,” the CP affirmed.