Rita Odafe
UK Businessman Raises Concerns Over Investigation into Shooting Incident
Mr. Akinleminu Blessing, a businessman residing in the UK, was attacked by political thugs shortly before the Ondo State governorship election on November 16, 2024. He has voiced serious worries regarding potential interference by security forces in the inquiry related to this event.
Blessing has made accusations against both the Ondo State Police Command and the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG), Zone 17 in Akure, claiming that they are attempting to dismiss the matter.
To recap, Blessing suffered a gunshot wound in the stomach during an assault by armed assailants in Idanre, Ondo State. He reported the crime to the police, but he argues that no substantial investigation has taken place since then.
In a recent statement released to the media in Akure, Blessing stated that a petition he submitted to the AIG’s office has been ignored.
The statement indicated: “On November 12, 2024, Mr. Akinleminu Blessing was socializing in Idanre with friends and two police officers assigned for his protection when a group of armed, masked individuals attacked him.”
“During this sudden and coordinated assault, his friends were injured, and the police officers could not respond in time. After being shot in the stomach, Blessing was transported to the University of Medical Sciences Specialist Hospital in Akure for emergency treatment and later moved to another facility for continued care.”
Blessing further mentioned that he initially reported the shooting to both Alade and Idanre Police Stations. However, due to perceived negligence on their part, he sought legal advice and submitted a formal petition to the AIG’s office on November 14, 2024.
“The petition was accepted for investigation but, to his surprise, the inquiry was intentionally stalled without any explanation, despite official approval. This frustrating experience pushed him to return to the UK earlier than planned,” he added.
Blessing appealed to the Ondo State government and relevant parties to take action to ensure justice prevails. He claims that the suspects involved in the attack are still at large in Idanre, boasting about their perceived safety from legal consequences.
“Our client is urgently seeking intervention from the government and concerned citizens, emphasizing that the suspects are acting with impunity and the lack of investigation on this case is unacceptable. This is a desperate plea for justice.”
In response, Funmi Odunlami, spokesperson for the Ondo State Police Command, refuted the accusations of a cover-up, stating: “The command was actively investigating the case when the complainant asked for the matter to be referred to the AIG’s office in Zone 17. An investigation was in progress prior to this request.”
Mr. Akeem Adeola, Public Relations Officer for Zone 17, mentioned he was unaware of the petition but committed to looking into the situation. “It is impossible for us to receive a petition and not act upon it. I will check on this and provide updates,” Adeola promised.
The public is waiting for the results of this investigation as anticipation grows for justice to be served.
