Tragedy struck Sumal Foods’ factory in Oluyole, Ibadan, as one person lost his life and twelve individuals were apprehended following a violent protest on Monday.
The Oyo State Police Command confirmed these developments in a statement issued by spokesperson Adewale Osifeso on Tuesday.
According to Osifeso, the protest, initially driven by rumors that the company had withheld pandemic palliatives meant for employees, spiraled into chaos when it was infiltrated by suspected hoodlums.
These elements seized the opportunity to vandalize property and vehicles within the factory premises, causing damages estimated in the millions.
“The Oyo State Police Command wishes to clarify the disturbing violent protests at Sumal Foods, Oluyole Ibadan, which erupted on Monday around 4:00 PM,” Osifeso stated.
“Initial investigations suggest that false information circulating among workers regarding the distribution of palliatives to private companies fueled the unrest.
Their primary grievance was the alleged denial of these benefits.
“However, normalcy has since returned to the affected area with the immediate deployment of the command’s operational and tactical assets to prevent any possible future re-occurrence. So far, twelve suspects have been arrested in connection with the violent protest,” Osifeso said.
Twelve suspects have been detained in connection with the unrest, while the Commissioner of Police, Ayodele Sonubi, has directed the State Criminal Investigation Department’s Homicide Department to oversee the case under the direct supervision of the Deputy Commissioner of Police.
As the investigation progresses, authorities aim to ensure accountability and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.
The community and stakeholders are urged to remain calm as efforts to maintain peace continue in the affected area.
Report by Adeleke Maria and John Adio for IbadanCity ANNOUNCER
