A UK-based businessman, Mr. Akinleminu Blessing, has accused the Ondo State Police Command and the office of the Assistant Inspector General of Police, Zone 17, Akure, of frustrating the investigation into an assault case where he was allegedly attacked and shot by thugs.
Blessing, who sustained gunshot injuries in the stomach during the attack on November 12, in Idanre, Ondo State, claimed the police have yet to take significant action against the assailants. The incident occurred just days before the state’s governorship election.
In a statement released by his lawyer, Mr. John Olowookere, Blessing revealed that the attack happened while he was with friends and two police officers assigned to him for protection. According to the statement, the armed assailants, some of whom were masked, stormed the location, injuring his friends and leaving the security personnel unable to intervene effectively.
The businessman was rushed to the University of Medical Sciences Specialist Hospital in Akure before being transferred to another facility for intensive care. However, Blessing alleged that his case, reported at Alade Police Station and later at the Idanre Divisional Police Station, was not thoroughly investigated.
A petition filed by his legal team on November 14, seeking a more discreet investigation by the AIG’s office, was allegedly approved but not acted upon. “Despite the petition being approved for investigation, the police at the AIG’s office suppressed any meaningful probe,” the statement claimed.
Blessing accused the authorities of deliberately neglecting the case, forcing him to return to the UK despite his initial plans to remain in Nigeria.
The lawyer called on the government and stakeholders to ensure justice is served, alleging that the suspects remain at large and continue to move freely in Idanre, claiming immunity from prosecution.
“Our client is crying out for justice and calling on all well-meaning individuals and the government to intervene before it is too late,” the statement read. “The perpetrators boast openly that they are untouchable and the reason the case has not been investigated.”
Reacting to the allegations, the Ondo State Police Public Relations Officer, Mrs. Funmilayo Odunlami, denied any negligence, explaining that the case was being investigated until Blessing requested it be transferred to Zone 17.
Zone 17’s Public Relations Officer, Mr. Akeem Adeola, said he was unaware of the petition but assured that he would investigate. “It is not possible for the zone to ignore such a petition. I will find out the details when I get to the office tomorrow (Friday),” he said.
The case continues to raise questions about police accountability and the handling of high-profile assault investigations.
