The Osun State Government has condemned the shooting of Comrade Iyanda Alowonle, Chairman of the Osun Transport Management System, while in police custody.
Alowonle, who sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen, is currently on life support at the Intensive Care Unit of the Osun State Teaching Hospital.
The incident occurred under the custody of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad in Osogbo. Video footage circulating on social media shows Alowonle handcuffed during an interrogation, dispelling claims that he attempted to escape. The location of the gunshot wound on his abdomen suggests he was shot at close range, raising concerns about intent.
According to the Special Adviser on Security Matters to the Osun State Governor, Samuel Ojo, interactions with the squad’s leader, Moses Lohor, indicate that the shooting was deliberate.
“This incident was premeditated and intended to eliminate Mr. Alowonle. It is alarming that a civil issue, unrelated to criminal activities, warranted the involvement of the Anti-Kidnapping Squad,” Ojo stated.
The state government accused Moses Lohor of a pattern of harassment and violence against government officials, citing politically motivated actions.
“This attempted murder is part of a series of targeted shootings and attacks by Mr. Lohor, who acts with impunity and has openly threatened to harm supporters of the state government,” the statement alleged.
The government also expressed concern over potential public backlash, revealing that it worked to prevent reprisal attacks on police facilities. “We are working tirelessly to maintain peace despite public outrage over this blatant act of police partisanship,” the statement noted.
Calling for urgent action, the government appealed to the Inspector General of Police and the National Security Adviser to address the growing threats to peace in the state.
“We demand the immediate arrest and prosecution of Mr. Moses Lohor for his wilful act of attempted murder. The police must remain impartial and uphold the rule of law without partisan interference,” the government emphasized.
The statement also warned of escalating tensions ahead of the 2026 elections, urging federal authorities to intervene. “The Inspector General of Police must act decisively to ensure that no actions or omissions jeopardize peace and stability in Osun State,” the statement concluded.
