Former RTEAN Chairman and Accomplice Arrested for Assault and Death

The Ekiti State Police have arrested Rotimi Olabiowonu, the former chairman of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria. They also arrested Opeyemi Adedoyin, one of his followers. They are accused of assaulting and abducting a 45-year-old man, Sunday Ogunsakin, who later died.

Michael Falade, the Commissioner of Police in Ekiti State, has ordered a careful investigation into how Ogunsakin was assaulted, abducted, and died.

The incident reportedly began from a land dispute between Ogunsakin and the suspects.

Sunday Abutu, the Police Public Relations Officer in the state, shared this information in a statement to journalists in Ado Ekiti on Tuesday.

Abutu said the incident took place around 8:45 PM on Monday. Olabiowonu and about five accomplices allegedly came to Ogunsakin's house in a Toyota bus.

They reportedly dragged Ogunsakin out of his home, beat him up, and took him away in the vehicle.

The PPRO explained, “According to the report, while the vehicle was in motion, the suspects pushed the victim out of the moving vehicle, causing him to sustain severe head injuries.

“Upon noticing the seriousness of his condition, the suspects allegedly took him to the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital for medical attention. However, he was subsequently confirmed dead by the medical doctor on duty.”

After the report, police began their investigation. They visited the scene and started trying to catch all those involved.

Abutu mentioned that Olabiowonu and Adedoyin have been arrested and are now in police custody. Efforts are ongoing to catch the other suspects who are still on the run.

The PPRO said the Commissioner of Police has asked the State Criminal Investigation Department to handle the case and carry out a thorough investigation. They aim to find out what really happened and ensure those responsible face justice.

The Commissioner of Police urged the public to stay calm. He advised people not to take the law into their own hands. Instead, they should report disputes, suspicious activities, and crimes to the police or relevant authorities.

The police also reminded the public that land disputes should be settled through lawful and peaceful means. They assured everyone that the investigation would be done fairly and according to the law.