Police probe death of Kwara poly student

The Kwara State Police Command has begun an investigation into the death of a 21-year-old Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, Qoyum Abdulyekeen Ishola, who was allegedly killed during a fuel hike protest by the students on Wednesday.

Qoyum, a National Diploma 2 student of Electrical/Electronics Engineering at the institution, was allegedly killed by the police in a mysterious circumstance in the Fate area, Ilorin.

The state police command in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, Ejire-Adeyemi Toun, on Sunday, said that it sympathised with the family of the late Qoyum.

“The Kwara State Police Command extends its heartfelt condolences to the family of Qoyum Abdulyekeen Ishola during this painful and trying time. We deeply sympathise with the family, friends, and all those affected by this unfortunate event which occurred on September 4, 2024. The loss of a loved one, especially in such circumstances, is a burden that no family should have to bear alone. Our thoughts are with you, and we pray for strength and comfort for everyone involved. The Commissioner of Police, Victor Olaiya, assures the family that we stand with them in this difficult moment and are committed to seeking justice on behalf of the deceased.

“Following the incident, a thorough investigation has already commenced and actors and witnesses have been identified. The Kwara State Police Command is fully dedicated to uncovering the facts of the matter and ensuring that those responsible, are brought to justice in accordance with the law. We are working with care and diligence, as we understand the importance of providing clear answers to the family and community.

“Our commitment to transparency in this investigation is unwavering, and we pledge to conduct the process with the utmost integrity, leaving no room for doubt or compromise.”

He appealed to the public, the student’s community and those directly impacted, to remain calm and allow the law to take its rightful course.

“While emotions may be high, we urge everyone to avoid actions that could hinder the investigation or disrupt public order. The Kwara State Police Command is mindful of its duty to serve and protect and we promise to keep the public informed of any new developments as the investigation progresses. We appreciate your patience and cooperation during this sensitive time”, the police said in the statement.

The students of the polytechnic, led by the Students’ Union President, Olalekan Isola, and the National President of the National Association of Kwara State Students, Abdulwahab Arewa, said in a statement on Thursday that they marched to the state police command’s headquarters in Ilorin to demand justice for the alleged killing of a fellow student, Abdulqoyyum, a National Diploma student of Electrical/Electronics Engineering of the institution.

A statement by the student union expressed a deep sense of responsibility over the alleged unfortunate incident involving the student and members of the police force.

“Earlier today (Thursday), we held an extensive meeting with relevant police authorities lasting over three hours. Our discussions were productive and we are working closely with the institution’s management and other key stakeholders to investigate the matter thoroughly”, the statement said.

In his reaction, the Rector of the institution, Abdul-Jimoh Muhammed, expressed sadness over the demise of the student.

“The circumstances around the young and promising student’s death are still dicey as there were many unconfirmed stories and narratives around it.

“The school management is committed to ensuring that justice is served as appropriate based on the final reports of the matter,” he said in a statement.

The rector appreciated the students for being calm and not taking the law into their own hands stressing that as the investigation unfolded, the polytechnic community remained resolute in its demand for accountability and justice for Abdulqoyyum.