Jimoh Isiaka: “This situation is highly regrettable” – Gov. Seyi Makinde

Jimoh Isiaka (Isiaq): “This situation is highly regrettable” – Gov. Seyi Makinde

Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has described the death of Jimoh Ibrahim as “highly regrettable”.

Jimoh Isiaka is an #EndSars protester who was allegedly shot by men of the Nigeria Police force on Saturday at Ogbomosho.

A police team monitoring the protest was said to have used live rounds to disperse the teeming protesters during which the victim was hit.

Isiaq’s bloodied, motionless body was shown in several videos that trended on social media after the shooting.

He was rushed to Bowen University Teaching Hospital, where medical sources said bullets pierced his ribs, making it difficult to save him.

Many Nigerians who took to social media said the killing further justified the agitation to bring an end to police brutality.

They prayed for the repose of Jimoh Isiaq’s soul, adding that his ultimate sacrifice would not be forgotten.

“I have received with deep sadness the news of the passing of one of our children, Jimoh Isiaka, who was shot during the ENDSARS protest in Ogbomoso. He later died at Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomoso, earlier today.” Says Gov. Makinde.

He continued, “Also, at this same protest, Abdulrasaq Olawale, Oluwadamilare Gbolohunmi, and five other persons sustained injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.

“This situation is highly regrettable. I have contacted the Commissioner of Police, Oyo State, Nwachukwu Enwonwu, and other relevant agencies, and investigations into what led to the unfortunate incident are still ongoing.

“I pray that God grants the parents of Jimoh Isiaka the fortitude to bear this irreplaceable loss.

“The ENDSARS protests are a strong indicator of a systemic failure. It is a failure on the part of those who have been constitutionally empowered to protect the citizens.

“It again calls into question why State Governors are called Chief Security Officers of their state whereas, they do not have the necessary powers to control the police force.

“I will be paying a personal visit to the family of Jimoh Isiaka and I promise to pursue the investigations to a logical conclusion.

“Peaceful protests are a big part of our democratic process. The right to freedom of speech and assembly are guaranteed by our Constitution, and I will never support any attempt to rob citizens of their fundamental human rights.

“I call on all residents of Oyo State to please remain calm. I also call on the Police to allow residents of Oyo State protest peacefully without fear of being assaulted.

“Again, I express my deepest sympathies to the family of Jimoh Isiaka, may his soul rest in peace.” He concluded.

Jimoh Isiaka was laid to rest on Saturday evening following the Islamic rites.