The Osun State Police Command has arrested Chief Ajibade Gbenga, the Ejimo of Ipetu-Ijesa, following allegations that he forced a 25-year-old man to drink a poisonous substance after accusing him of stealing two ears of corn from the chief’s farm.
The incident occurred about a week ago in the Ireti Ayo area of Ilesa and has sparked widespread condemnation.
According to the police spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, the victim, identified as Ebenezer, was beaten and then made to ingest the poison by Chief Ajibade, aged 62.
After the incident, the young man was rushed to Wesley Guild Hospital, Ilesa, where doctors successfully neutralized the poison’s effects and stabilized his condition.
Tragically, the victim’s father died of shock after falsely receiving news that his son had died from poisoning.
Following the arrest, Chief Ajibade was transferred to Osogbo for further investigations while the police continue to probe the matter.
The incident was captured on video and widely circulated, showing the chief wielding a cutlass before forcing the young man to drink the substance.
Osun police have assured the public that justice will be served, urging calm and warning against taking the law into one’s hands.
In response to the allegations, the Ijesa Sports Club, of which Chief Ajibade is the president, announced his suspension pending the outcome of the investigation.
The police are committed to ensuring that such abuses of authority are thoroughly investigated to uphold rule of law and protect citizens’ rights in Osun State.
