The entire Kwara State Polytechnic community is demanding justice following the tragic death of 21-year-old Abdulqoyyum Bamidele, a student who was allegedly killed by the police in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State.
On Thursday, students led by 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. Their mission was clear: to seek justice for Abdulqoyyum, a second-year National Diploma (ND 2) student of Electrical/Electronics Engineering.
The students’ union released a statement expressing their deep sense of responsibility and concern over the incident. They disclosed that an extensive meeting, lasting over three hours, had been held with relevant police authorities. During the meeting, the institution’s management, alongside other key stakeholders, vowed to investigate the matter thoroughly.
According to sources, Abdulqoyyum was allegedly chased by a police officer to the Fate area of Ilorin. He was later found with a deep wound on one of his arms and rushed to Kwara State General Hospital. Despite efforts to save him, he succumbed to his injuries due to severe blood loss.
Reacting to the unfortunate event, the Rector of Kwara State Polytechnic, Engr. Abdul Jimoh Muhammed, expressed sadness over Abdulqoyyum’s death. In a statement issued by the institution’s spokesperson, Mrs. Halimat Garba, it was revealed that the tragic incident occurred on Wednesday, September 4, 2024, in the GRA area of Ilorin. The Rector emphasized that while there are many unconfirmed stories about what led to the student’s death, the school remains committed to ensuring that justice is served.
The Rector also appreciated the students for remaining calm and not resorting to violence. He urged them to remain patient as the investigation progresses, assuring them that the Polytechnic will stand firm in its demand for accountability.
Meanwhile, the spokesperson of the Kwara State police command, DSP Ejire Adeyemi Toun, confirmed that investigations had begun, promising that the police would provide an update once the findings are concluded.
This tragic incident has sparked calls for transparency and justice, as the Polytechnic community and Abdulqoyyum’s family await a thorough and fair investigation.
Kwara Polytechnic students demand justice after Abdulqoyyum Bamidele, a student, was allegedly killed by the police.
The institution’s management is working with police authorities to ensure a thorough investigation.
The community is urging calm as investigations continue.
