Victor Ogunje in Ado Ekiti
The police in Ekiti State have begun a manhunt for the suspected killer of a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the ward congress held last Saturday.
The man, who was identified as Jide, was killed at Ward 10 in Ado Ekiti after being allegedly beaten with substance suspected to be charm.
The victim was said to have been rushed to the hospital, but died few moments later.
Speaking with journalists in Ado Ekiti yesterday, the state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), ASP Sunday Abutu, said the police are working tirelessly with the party leaders to apprehend the suspect.
According to him, “We are putting all the necessary efforts to track down the suspected killer, including working with the party leaders to arrest him.
“The matter happened yesterday, and what we are doing now is to investigate the matter thoroughly and ascertain those involved in the dastardly act.
“Though no arrest has been made, we are optimistic that no effort will be spared on the matter because the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Babatunde Mobayo, won’t tolerate crimes in the state.”
Meanwhile, the state APC has denied the accusation that the violence that trailed the congress led to the death of Jide.
A statement issued by the APC Director of Media, Sam Oluwalalna, said without prejudice to the ongoing police investigations, the issues around the isolated case of violence that occurred in Ward 10, Ado-Ekiti, was not masterminded by members of the party.
“It is incontrovertible that the congress in the ward was peacefully concluded, followed by a celebration. Afterwards, there was a disagreement between two individuals around the venue on a matter totally unconnected to the congresses, which led to a fight and the unfortunate demise of one of them.
“We have it on good authority that the incident happened long after the congress had been concluded, and was not connected to the conduct or outcome of the exercise.
“We commiserate with the family of the deceased and assure the authorities of our cooperation in their investigations,” APC media aide said.
