The Osun State Police Command has taken Nurudeen Wakili, widely known as Alowonle, into custody over allegations of multiple murders, firearm possession, and other criminal activities. Wakili, who chairs the Osun State Transport Management System (OSTMS), was arrested under dramatic circumstances that included a gunfight and an attempted escape.
The arrest operation, carried out by the Anti-Kidnapping Squad led by Commander Moses Lohor, began on Monday night in Osogbo. Police acted on a petition linking Wakili to a violent attack on one Alhaji Alowonle. However, the operation turned chaotic when Wakili’s associates reportedly ambushed the officers, enabling his temporary escape.
Sources revealed that police later located Wakili in the Oke-Baale area of Osogbo. During this second arrest, officers searched his unmarked Toyota Highlander SUV and discovered a Beretta pistol along with live ammunition. Nine of his gang members were also detained, along with a Toyota Hiace vehicle.
Speaking about the incident, Acting Police Public Relations Officer Yemi Alade-Giwa confirmed the high-stakes drama. He explained, “He engaged our operatives in a gun battle during the arrest. He was apprehended for unlawful possession of a firearm, attempted murder, conspiracy, murder, and malicious damage. None of our officers sustained injuries. After escaping initially with the help of his gang, our team regrouped and re-arrested him. A search of his vehicle in his presence revealed live ammunition. He was injured during a second escape attempt and rushed to the hospital for treatment.”
Meanwhile, Mukaila Popoola, Secretary of the OSTMS, raised concerns over Wakili’s condition, claiming that he was shot while already in police custody. Popoola urged the authorities to thoroughly investigate the shooting and called for calm among OSTMS members. “Our chairman was shot in police custody under circumstances that demand thorough investigation. We call on our members to maintain peace across the parks while we address this matter with the appropriate authorities,” he said.
