Police in Kwara State have arrested four people in connection with the killing of the Chief Imam of Sokunkpan, located in the Tsaragi District of Edu Local Government Area. The tragic incident occurred on Tuesday night after a group of angry residents allegedly attacked and murdered the cleric, identified as Abdullahi Audu, over suspicions surrounding the death of a 25-year-old man.
According to reports, the mob—allegedly led by two brothers—accused the cleric of being responsible for the death of Ibrahim Gana, who passed away at a local hospital following a prolonged illness. Enraged by the young man’s death, the brothers, Muhammad Shaaba and Mahmud Gana, reportedly mobilised others in the community and stormed the residence of the Chief Imam, killing him in a violent attack.
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The Kwara State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement released by its spokesperson, SP Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi. She said the attack happened around 9:30 p.m. on Tuesday, and four suspects had already been arrested while investigations continue.
“Preliminary findings revealed that the deceased, Ibrahim Gana, died after a long illness. However, his brothers suspected foul play and accused the Chief Imam of causing his death. They gathered a mob and launched an attack that resulted in the cleric’s death,” the statement read.
SP Ejire-Adeyemi further stated that police operatives have intensified efforts to track down others involved in the crime.
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Meanwhile, the Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, has condemned the incident, describing it as an unlawful act of mob justice. He warned residents against taking the law into their own hands, stressing that such actions constitute serious criminal offences.
“We will ensure that those responsible for this act face the full weight of the law,” the Commissioner said.
He also appealed to members of the public to remain calm, cooperate with law enforcement, and report any suspicious activity through the command’s official communication channels.
The police boss reaffirmed the command’s commitment to maintaining peace, security, and justice across Kwara State, adding that updates would be provided as investigations progress.
