The Oyo State Police Command has paraded five suspects arrested in connection with the discovery of firearms and other incriminating items recovered from a building demolished by the state government in Ibadan.
The command said efforts were ongoing to arrest the principal suspect, identified as Surajudeen Adio, popularly known as Suri Ilupeju, who remains at large following the operation.
Speaking during the parade of the suspects and recovered exhibits, police authorities disclosed that Adio became a subject of investigation after he allegedly threatened to shoot an individual, prompting a formal complaint to law enforcement agencies.
The development follows the demolition of the property by the Oyo State Government on June 16 as part of its crackdown on buildings and assets allegedly linked to criminal activities across the state.
Authorities had earlier revealed that the demolished building was allegedly being used as a storage facility for arms and ammunition.
The property was reportedly linked to Adio, while photographs believed to belong to him were recovered from the premises during a security operation conducted days before the demolition.
Among those paraded were individuals who claimed they had no involvement in any criminal activity.
Most of the suspects told investigators that they visited Adio to seek financial assistance, describing him as a benefactor known for helping people acquire vehicles and commercial tricycles through installment payment arrangements.
One of those who spoke during the parade was Muhideen Adio, the suspect’s son, who recently returned to Nigeria from Poland.
He maintained that his father should face prosecution if investigations establish his involvement in the allegations.
Muhideen said he was prepared to support lawful action against his father if evidence confirmed the accusations, stressing that no individual should be shielded from justice.
The police spokesperson reiterated that investigations had not been concluded and assured residents that security operatives were working to uncover the full scope of the activities linked to the demolished property.
According to the command, intelligence gathering and follow-up operations are ongoing to locate and apprehend the fleeing suspect, while further inquiries are expected to determine the origin and intended use of the recovered weapons.
The police also reassured residents of Oyo State of their commitment to maintaining public safety and combating criminality, urging members of the public to continue providing useful information that could assist ongoing investigations.
Authorities said the command remains determined to ensure that all individuals connected to the alleged arms stockpile are brought to justice in accordance with the law.
