Osun Police Release Student, Identify Officers in Viral Assault Probe

Bassey Ewah, serving as the Assistant Inspector-General of Police for Zone 11 Headquarters in Osogbo, has mandated the prompt discharge of a student taken into custody in Ede, Osun State. This directive was issued on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, after a dialogue session involving the AIG, student representatives, and the detained individual. The police action was triggered when footage showing alleged police violence against a young man spread rapidly across digital social networks.

The incident, which took place in Ede, was captured in footage shared by user Oyekola A. Samuel, known online as #OKollyp. The video shows a young man being manhandled and assaulted by men dressed in police uniforms. During the confrontation, a young woman can be seen pleading with the officers to spare the man. The viral nature of the clip prompted a swift response from the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) leadership in the region.

Background

A statement issued on Thursday, November 5, 2026, by the Zonal Police Public Relations Officer for Zone 11, Superintendent of Police Ojedele Olanrewaju Tunji, confirmed that the AIG viewed the incident with serious concern. The statement clarified that the alleged assault involved operatives from the Zone 11 Cybercrime Unit. Ewah assured the students and the public that the circumstances surrounding the incident would be subject to a thorough and impartial investigation.

According to the police statement, the officers involved in the incident have already been identified. The NPF has initiated necessary steps to ensure the matter is investigated properly. Ewah noted that although law enforcement officers hold constitutional authority to uphold the law and preserve public order, they are required to execute these responsibilities with discipline, professionalism, and due regard for the inherent dignity and human rights of all persons. The AIG underscored that wearing the police uniform does not grant officers the right to infringe upon citizens' rights, reiterating that no member of the force is exempt from legal accountability.

Why it matters

The case highlights ongoing concerns regarding police conduct and the use of force in Nigeria. The Nigeria Police Force declared that it firmly opposes any instances of brutality, coercion, or misuse of authority by its members. Ewah reiterated the Force’s commitment to accountability, transparency, and the protection of lives and property. The official notice cautioned that personnel found responsible for misconduct or breaches of police regulations would be subjected to disciplinary actions consistent with current laws and NPF guidelines.

The AIG also urged residents of Osun and Oyo States, which fall under the jurisdiction of Zone 11 Headquarters, to remain calm and law-abiding. He urged the general public to refrain from forming hasty judgments and to permit the relevant authorities to carry out a comprehensive inquiry. The leadership pledged to disclose the findings of the inquiry once it is completed, with the objective of preserving public confidence and trust in the Nigeria Police Force.

What happens next

The investigation into the alleged assault by the Zone 11 Cybercrime Unit operatives is currently underway. The NPF has promised to release the findings of this probe once it is concluded. In the interim, the affected student has been released from custody following the AIG's direct order. The police have indicated that disciplinary actions will be taken against any officers found to have violated professional standards or human rights protocols during the incident.