Several arrests have been made by the Ogun State Police Command in connection with the murder of Mrs. Blessing Eze, a trader at the Ifo Market, who was killed on June 6. The confirmation came from the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Ifo, Mr. Kamorudeen Olabisi, during a peace meeting held to calm growing tensions in the area.
The meeting, organised by the Chairman of Ifo Local Government, Mr. Idris Olalekan Kusimo, brought together political figures, security officials, traditional leaders, market stakeholders, and members of the Igbo community. It was held to address fears within the community and to ensure peace after the shocking incident.
Olabisi noted that the suspects, who were described as market touts, have already been arrested and charged to court. They are currently being held at the Ilaro Correctional Centre. He urged market traders to speak up against harassment, extortion, or any form of violence, assuring them that police would continue investigations and that more suspects may still be caught.
Kusimo stated that a detailed probe had begun to understand what led to Mrs. Eze’s death. He strongly condemned the killing, describing it as a serious blow to the peaceful nature of the Ifo community. “This is not who we are as a people,” he said, adding that justice must be done. He also offered condolences to the victim’s family and appreciated Governor Dapo Abiodun for stepping in to help restore calm.
Mr. Monday Chukwuji, from the office of the Special Assistant to the governor on Inter-Ethnic Affairs, attended the gathering and noted that the state government was committed to resolving the matter while promoting peace between all ethnic groups.
High Chief Theophilus Ikpeghibum, who is the Babaloja of Ndi’gbo Traders in the area, said he supported Kusimo’s peace moves but asked that illegal levies and extortion by thugs in the market be stopped immediately. He said the market should be safe for everyone.
Chief Tijani Adesina, speaking for the Olu of Ifo, described the Igbo traders as law-abiding and important members of the Ifo society. He condemned the act of violence and said the traditional palace was working to get rid of criminals from the market area.
Willy Okonkwo, the Eze Ndi’gbo of Ogun, praised Kusimo’s leadership and urged Igbo traders to stay calm and maintain good relationships with the wider Ifo community. He also noted Governor Abiodun’s development work in the state.
