The Oyo State Police Command has arrested two suspects over the alleged killing of 26-year-old Kehinde Asimiyu at Olodo Garage, Ibadan, as security agencies moved to prevent a possible breakdown of law and order in the community.
Police identified the suspects as Taiwo Babarinde, who is suspected of inflicting the fatal injury, and Ishola Semiu, who is alleged to have been involved in the incident.
The killing occurred on November 1, 2026, following an altercation between Asimiyu and Babarinde at Olodo Garage.
According to the police, Asimiyu was allegedly stabbed with a broken bottle during the confrontation.
The incident was subsequently reported to the deceased’s family by an unidentified motorcycle rider who arrived at their residence.
Police operatives and a patrol team were then mobilised to the scene.
Asimiyu was rushed to Academy Hospital at Texaco, Iwo Road, Ibadan, where a doctor on duty confirmed him dead.
His remains were deposited at Adejare Embalming Centre for preservation, while photographs were taken as part of preliminary investigative procedures.
Confirming the arrests in a statement issued on Tuesday, November 3, the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka, said both suspects remained in police custody.
“In the course of the Police intervention and subsequent investigation, two suspects were arrested. They are Taiwo Babarinde, suspected of inflicting the fatal injury on the deceased, and Ishola Semiu, suspected of involvement in the incident,” Ayanlade said.
He added that the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID), Iyaganku, Ibadan, had taken over the case for a comprehensive investigation.
The killing, however, sparked tension around the Olodo Police Outpost, with the command saying threats by suspected hoodlums raised concerns about a possible escalation of violence.
In response, the police deployed additional operational personnel, supported by the Nigerian Army, Amotekun Corps, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and other local security components.
The command said the joint deployment helped restore normalcy, while security personnel remained in the area to prevent further disturbances and protect residents.
The Commissioner of Police, Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, also directed the Area Commander, Moniya, to engage community stakeholders in efforts to address the tensions and prevent a recurrence.
Acting on the directive, the Area Commander held a strategic meeting with representatives of the Local Council Development Area, youth leaders and unions representing tricycle and motorcycle operators.
According to the police, the meeting focused on finding practical solutions, improving communication with security agencies and promoting peaceful coexistence among residents and other stakeholders.
Reports from the area indicated that the killing had heightened tensions and affected commercial activities, with motorcycle operators reportedly withdrawing their services amid fears of possible reprisal attacks.
The police command has warned individuals or groups against exploiting the incident to foment violence or destabilise the community.
“The Command reassures residents of Olodo and its environs that adequate security measures remain in place to safeguard lives and property,” Ayanlade said.
He warned that anyone whose actions threatened public peace or sought to undermine security in the area would face decisive action.
CP Olugbenga urged residents to remain calm, shun violence and resolve disagreements through dialogue, while encouraging community members to provide credible and timely information to security agencies.
The command said sustained security measures would remain in place across Olodo and its environs to protect lives and property and prevent a fresh outbreak of violence.
