By Raymond Osho
ABEOKUTA: The gruesome killing of three students by operatives of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) in Ipokia Local Government, Ogun State on Monday has triggered the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun’s reaction, saying, “I will investigate the killing”.
The three victims who were students of Ojumo Community High School, Ihunbo in Ipokia were standing by the road side after close of school when the officers who were in hot chase of suspected smugglers with their rickety vehicle rammed into them (students).
The Governor, according to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Kunle Somorin on Tuesday October 8, 2019 was shocked when the information got to him.
Abiodun who lamented the heart-quacking incident described it as “condemnable”, adding that his administration respect the sanctity of human lives in the State.
He said, ”Government exists to provide security and welfare for the people. No matter the circumstances, we found this condemnable. We would not fold our arms and watch our future leaders killed in that manner”.
The statement added that the Governor warned security men, chasing suspected smugglers or hoodlums to be wary of the rights of citizens in all circumstances.
Abiodun said it was reprehensible that young children with promising futures could be lost to such a manner.
He noted that he would not just investigate the circumstances of the gory killings of these potential leaders of tomorrow, but would do everything possible to prevent a recurrence and would ensure that indicted persons are brought to justice.
He also prayed that the Almighty God would, “grant the families of these innocent children the fortitude to bear the loss”. He also pleaded with the people not to take laws into their hands in dealing with the unfortunate situation.
The Governor, however, advised security personnel, especially NCS officials, to apply moderate engagements with suspected smugglers or hoodlums along the border towns to avoid such loss of lives and property in future.