Recalling the tragic events of October 20, 2020, the #EndSars protest at Ojoo roundabout in Ibadan witnessed the loss of numerous lives, contradicting Governor Seyi Makinde’s claims. Despite ongoing nationwide demonstrations calling for the disbandment of the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS), renamed Special Youth Killers Squad, the Ojoo Police Division, led by CSP Adeola Odetunde, responded to the peaceful protest with excessive force, resulting in the tragic deaths of innocent civilians, including 16-year-old Qudus and 21 others.
Four years later, justice remains elusive for the victims and their families, while Governor Makinde’s government continues to downplay the severity of the tragedy.
Led by CSP Adeola Odetunde, the Ojoo Police Division was responsible for the violent disruption of peaceful protests that had continued for weeks. Their actions directly resulted in the tragic loss of lives.
Four years after the #EndSars Judicial Panel of Inquiry was established, Governor Seyi Makinde and his appointed panel have yet to provide answers to critical questions surrounding the massacre at Ojoo roundabout. Key questions remain unanswered:
Who is responsible for the deaths of Qudus Agbolade and the other victims?
Why has there been no official recognition of the Ojoo roundabout massacre?
How many police officers have been charged with crimes against humanity?
What efforts have been made to provide compensation for victims and their families?
Today makes it four years of no justice perpetrated by CSP Adeola Odetunde and his officers while future of many youth has been cut short. Who is Qudus Agbolade?
Qudus Agbolade was 16years old, first born to his father. He attends Mount Olivet Grammar School Ashi Bodija Ibadan, where he graduated from Junior Secondary School III to Senior Secondary School I, while he was waiting for JSS III results he became victims of Ojoo massacre. After his death at Ojoo roundabout in front of Ojoo Police Division headquarter, the perpetrated are walking freely in our society instead of them being prosecuted to face the wrath of law they were promoted.
Qudus Agbolade family strives and approached Seyi Makinde inaugurated panel of inquiry to seek justice in 2021, the panel concluded it sittings but Seyi Makinde has failed to make the panel reports and recommendations public till date.
It is crucial for all who value fairness and accountability to stand alongside the family of Qudus Agbolade and demand answers for the atrocities committed during the #EndSars Ojoo Massacre. By amplifying their voices and supporting their fight, we not only honor the memory of Qudus and other victims but also inspire and empower other families to break their silence and join the collective call for justice.
The legacy of Qudus Agbolade and all those who lost their lives in this tragedy will live on in the hearts of Nigerians, serving as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for a more just and equitable society. Their bravery and sacrifice will not be forgotten, and we must continue to push for the accountability and change that their lives, and the lives of countless others, depend on.
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