Lucky Obukohwo Reporting
An operative of the Osun State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, Lamidi Abiodun, has been killed in an ambush by suspected hoodlums at the Papa boundary area in Iwo.
A member of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), Nurudeen Alowonle, remains missing, while another, Alex Sola, sustained a gunshot wound in the leg during the operation.
The incident was said to have occurred after local farmers in the Papa Farm area alerted the Iwo Area Command of Amotekun Corps about an attack on their farmland.
The Corps Public Relations Officer, Yusuf Abass confirmed the incident on Thursday, stating, “The farmers alerted the Iwo Area Command of Osun Amotekun Corps about an ongoing attack on their farmland. In swift response, a team of Amotekun operatives, in company with members of the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN), mobilised to the scene to confront the threat and safeguard lives and property.”
Abass explained, “Upon arriving at the location, the team was ambushed by a group of armed men allegedly led by a notorious criminal known as Akeem Olofa, who has been a menace in the region.
During the confrontation, Mr Abiodun was attacked. Although initial gunfire did not penetrate his body, he was brutally assaulted with a machete to the head and died instantly at the scene.”
He confirmed Alowonle’s missing status and Sola’s injury, noting the profound grief within the Amotekun Corps and Osun’s security community.
The incident has been reported to the Nigeria Police in Iwo, with Abiodun’s body deposited at a local mortuary. Abass added, “Investigations are ongoing, and efforts are being intensified to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.
“The Osun Amotekun Corps remains resolute in its mission to protect the people and communities of Osun State from all forms of insecurity. We urge residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities.
“We extend our deepest condolences to the family of Mr Lamidi Abiodun and stand united in honour of his bravery and ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty”,Abass said.