Ifon Crisis: Family Petitions Ondo CJ Over Son’s Death, Seeks Probe

The family of Tolu Bobade, who died while in police custody Ifon, headquarters of Ose local government area of Ondo State, have petitioned the Chief Judge of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola, demanding a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding their son’s arrest, detention, and death.

In the petition, the family wrote through Dupe Bobade, dispatched to the Chief Judge, and made available to journalists in Akure, the state capital, on Monday; the family alleged that their son, aged 17, met his untimely and tragic death “under circumstances that not only shock the conscience but also starkly contravene the laws of our nation.”

In the petition, the family said the deceased ”On the 14th of February, 2025, Tolu was arrested by officers of the Ifon Police Division under the directive of Divisional Police Officer (DPO).

“During his detention, Tolu was subjected to severe torture, leading to his death on the 15th of February, 2024. In a grievous attempt to obscure their misconduct, the officers transported his lifeless body to Adelabu Hospital in Ifon, where it was rejected.

“Subsequently, they moved his remains to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) in Owo, where it was deposited in the morgue on their own without the knowledge of the family.”

The petition is titled “Petition for Justice in the Case of Late Master Tolu Bobade”.In light of these egregious violations, we earnestly request Immediate Investigation: A thorough and impartial investigation into the circumstances surrounding Tolu’s arrest, detention, and death.

“Prosecution of Offenders: All officers involved should be held accountable and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law, by the provisions of the Anti-Torture Act and the ACJA.

“The Bobade family seeks solace in the assurance that justice will prevail, not only to honour the memory of Tolu but also to reinforce the rule of law and deter future violations.

“We trust your esteemed office to ensure justice is served.”