Ondo Amotekun and Nigeria Police Clash leaves nine injured in Akure as dispute over suspect custody leads to gunfire exchange.
A confrontation between operatives of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun, and the Nigeria Police Force resulted in nine individuals sustaining serious injuries in Akure on Sunday, May 4, 2025.
The clash reportedly stemmed from a dispute over the custody of a suspect and a recovered stolen motorcycle.
According to reports, a complainant approached the Amotekun office in Akure to report a missing motorcycle.
Amotekun operatives swiftly acted, recovering the stolen motorcycle and apprehending the suspect.
However, shortly after the arrest, police officers arrived at the Amotekun office, demanding the release of the suspect into their custody.
An argument ensued between the two security agencies, escalating into an exchange of gunfire that left nine people injured and hospitalized.
In response to the incident, the Ondo State Police Command issued a statement through its spokesperson, DSP Ayanlade Olayinka Olushola, clarifying that the police intervened to prevent a breakdown of law and order.
The statement emphasized that the police employed professional measures, including the use of tear gas, to disperse the crowd and restore calm.
The police denied any exchange of gunfire between their officers and Amotekun operatives, asserting that their actions were in line with maintaining public safety.
The police command reiterated its commitment to collaborating with other security agencies while urging all personnel to operate within the confines of the law and established protocols.
The incident underscores the need for clear communication and coordination among security outfits to prevent such occurrences in the future.