Tragedy Strikes Ibadan: Worker Shot Dead In Explosive Wage Protest

Tragedy Strikes Ibadan: Worker Shot Dead In Explosive Wage ProtestA casual worker at a manufacturing company in Ibadan, Oyo State, has died following a protest over wage increases. The incident occurred on Monday when employees demonstrated against the company’s refusal to raise salaries and provide palliatives.

Reports indicate that the protest was fueled by workers’ belief that the federal government had directed private sector companies to distribute palliatives, but their employer failed to comply.

The protest escalated into violence, prompting the company’s management to call in security forces. During the ensuing clash, a worker was shot and later died, while several others were injured.

Adewale Osifeso, the Public Relations Officer of the Oyo State Police Command, confirmed the incident, stating that several suspects have been arrested. He revealed that the Commissioner of Police has tasked the Homicide Department of the Criminal Investigation Department with investigating the case, with the Deputy Commissioner of Police overseeing it.

“Preliminary investigation reveals that the protest was based on misinformation about the disbursement of palliatives to private companies. The workers believed they were being denied the welfare package, leading to the protest being hijacked by criminal elements who caused significant damage to vehicles and property,” Osifeso explained.

He added, “One death was recorded during the violent protest. However, normalcy has been restored with the deployment of the Command’s operational and tactical units to prevent future occurrences. So far, twelve suspects have been arrested in connection with the violent protest. The CP has ordered a thorough investigation by the Homicide Department.”