The Oyo State Police Command has launched an investigation into the killing of a 24-year-old man, Sefiu Kehinde, who was allegedly attacked by a masquerade during a procession in the Labiran area of Ibadan.
The Command also confirmed the arrest of the masquerade identified as Asoleke in connection with the incident.
In a statement issued on Monday and signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Ayanlade Oluseyi Olayinka, the Command said the incident was reported at the Mapo Divisional Police Headquarters on Sunday, July 5, 2026, by one Mrs. Aderemi.
According to Olayinka, Mrs. Aderemi told the police she received a distress call from her elder sister at about 4:00 p.m., informing her that the Asoleke masquerade and some of its followers allegedly attacked her younger brother, Sefiu Kehinde, with axes and cutlasses while parading through the Labiran area, leaving him with severe injuries.
“Upon receipt of the report, a team of Police operatives led by the Divisional Police Officer, Mapo Division, swiftly mobilised to the scene. The victim was immediately evacuated to the hospital for urgent medical attention, where he was unfortunately confirmed dead on arrival by the medical doctor on duty,” Olayinka said.
The police spokesperson added that officers processed the crime scene and documented relevant evidence, including photographs, while the deceased’s family requested and obtained the release of the body for burial in accordance with Islamic rites.
Olayinka disclosed that the Asoleke masquerade had been arrested, while four of his alleged accomplices remained at large. He said the Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Abimbola Ayodeji Olugbenga, had directed that the case be transferred to the State Criminal Investigation Department for a thorough investigation.
“The Command wishes to assure members of the public that efforts are ongoing to arrest the remaining perpetrators. Residents are urged to remain calm and cooperate with the Police by providing credible information that may assist the investigation,” Olayinka stated.
He reiterated that the Oyo State Police Command remained committed to protecting lives and property and would continue to take decisive action against all forms of criminality across the state.
