The Kwara State Police Command has expressed its deepest condolences to the family of Qoyum AbdulYekeen Ishola, who tragically lost his life on September 4, 2024.
Bamidele, an ND student of Electrical Electronic Engineering Department, Kwara State Polytechnic was killed by a gunshot allegedly triggered by the officer along Panat Road, behind the old JAMB office in Ilorin, the state capital.
According to an eyewitness account quoted by Accurate News NG, the deceased was accosted by some officers on a patrol along the road and was asked to enter their vehicle for search.
In a statement issued by the Police Spokesperson DSP Toun Ejire-Adeyemi on behalf of the Commissioner on Sunday, the Command assured the family that it stands with them during this difficult time and is committed to seeking justice for the deceased.
It added that a thorough investigation has commenced, and actors and witnesses have been identified.
The statement read in parts: “The Kwara State Police Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of Qoyum Abdulyekeen Ishola during this painful and trying time. We deeply sympathize with the family, friends, and all those affected by this unfortunate event.
“The loss of a loved one, especially in such circumstances, is a burden that no family should have to bear alone.
“We assures the family that we stand with them in this difficult moment and are committed to seeking justice on behalf of the deceased.
“Following the incident, a thorough investigation has already commenced and actors and witnesses have been identified.
“The Kwara State Police Command is fully dedicated to uncovering the facts of the matter and ensuring that those responsible, are brought to justice in accordance with the law. We are working with care and diligence, as we understand the importance of providing clear answers to the family and community.
“Our commitment to transparency in this investigation is unwavering, and we pledge to conduct the process with the utmost integrity, leaving no room for doubt or compromise.
“We appeal to the public, the student’s community and those directly impacted, to remain calm and allow the law to take its rightful course.
“While emotions may be high, we urge everyone to avoid actions that could hinder the investigation or disrupt public order.
“The Kwara State Police Command is mindful of its duty to serve and protect, and we promise to keep the public informed of any new developments as the investigation progresses. We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this sensitive time.”
In the same vein, the management of the Polytechnic via a statement issued by the institution’s Public Relations Officer, Halimat Garba on behalf of the Rector read: “We commiserate with the family of the deceased and the entire Polytechnic community on this sad development and pray that God gives the family, friends, classmates and the entire Polytechnic the strength to bear the huge loss.
“We are committed to ensuring that justice is served as appropriate based on the final reports of this matter.
Some of the angry students at the police headquarters, Ahmadu Bello Way, to demand justice.
“We appreciates the students for being calm and not taking laws into their hands, as the investigation unfolds, the Polytechnic community remains resolute in its demand for accountability and justice for Abdulqoyyum.”