The Osun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has called for a thorough and impartial investigation into the killing of 14-year-old Ezekiel Olapade, who was allegedly shot dead in Ilobu by suspected political thugs.
In a statement issued in Osogbo on Friday, PDP Chairman Sunday Bisi urged the Inspector-General of Police to monitor the investigation and ensure justice is served, regardless of political affiliation.
The party also raised concerns over an alleged police raid on the residence of its Irepodun Local Government chairman on June 29, claiming the operation was carried out without prior invitation and led to property damage. It warned that such actions could undermine public confidence and suggest bias in the investigation.
The PDP called on relevant institutions, including the Police Service Commission and the National Human Rights Commission, to ensure the probe remains professional and free from political interference. It also demanded investigations into reported threats against local security personnel and the ownership of a vehicle allegedly used by the attackers.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Police Command has arrested 24 suspects, including Kareem Saheed, popularly known as Tanfeani, who was accused of leading the attack. The suspects were paraded in Osogbo on charges ranging from unlawful association to thuggery.
The victim’s father, Gbenga Olapade, alleged that his son was hit by gunfire during an attack on a palm wine bar near the Irepodun Local Government Secretariat on June 21.
However, Saheed denied involvement, claiming he was elsewhere at the time and alleging he is being falsely accused due to political rivalry.
Efforts to obtain a response from the police spokesperson were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.
The PDP said it would continue to support the victim’s family and resist any attempt to politicize the case.
