Kwara Poly Management, Students Demand Justice for Student Allegedly Killed by Police
The management and students of Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin, have united in their demand for justice following the tragic death of a 21-year-old student, Abdulqoyyum Bamidele, who was allegedly killed by the police in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State.
The incident, which has sparked outrage within the institution and beyond, led to a peaceful protest on Thursday. Students, under the leadership of the Polytechnic’s Students’ Union President, Olalekan Isola, and the National President of the National Association of Kwara State Students, Abdulwahab Habeebullahi Arewa, marched to the state police command headquarters in Ilorin to demand justice for their fellow student.
In a statement, the students’ union expressed its profound concern over the incident, describing it as a grievous violation. “Earlier today (Thursday), we held an extensive meeting with relevant police authorities lasting over three hours. Our discussions were productive, and we are working closely with the institution’s management and other key stakeholders to investigate the matter thoroughly,” Isola said.
According to sources, Abdulqoyyum, a National Diploma (ND) 2 student of Electrical/Electronics Engineering, was allegedly chased by a police officer to an enclosed area in the Fate area of Ilorin. The circumstances surrounding what happened next remain unclear, but Abdulqoyyum was found with a deep wound on one of his arms. He was rushed to the Kwara State General Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries on Thursday morning. His burial took place later that day in accordance with Islamic rites.
The Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, Engr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammed, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the promising student. In a statement released by the institution’s spokesperson, Mrs. Halimat Garba, the tragic event was confirmed to have occurred on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in the GRA area of Ilorin.
“The circumstances surrounding the young and promising student’s death remain uncertain, with many conflicting stories and narratives emerging. The school management is committed to ensuring that justice is served as appropriate based on the final reports of the matter,” the statement read.
The Rector also commended the students for maintaining calm and not resorting to violence. He emphasized that the polytechnic community is steadfast in its pursuit of accountability and justice for Abdulqoyyum as the investigation continues.
The spokesperson for the state police command, DSP Ejire Adeyemi Toun, confirmed on Friday that an investigation into the matter had begun. She assured that the police would release the findings upon the completion of a thorough investigation.
