The Ondo State Police Command has arrested a suspect in connection with the murder of a 25-year-old student of Rufus Giwa Polytechnic, Owo, Ayodele Peter.
Ayodele was shot dead by suspected cultists on Sunday, December 14, 2025.
The spokesperson of the command, DSP Jimoh Abayomi Kazeem in a statement on Monday, said the suspect was arrested in the Opomulero area of Owo.
“The Ondo State Police Command wishes to inform the general public that it received a distress call on 14th December, 2025 regarding a violent incident involving suspected cultists at Shine Villa, Opomulero Street, Owo,” the statement read.
“Upon receipt of the information, it was alleged that suspected members of a cult group forcefully gained entry into the premises and attacked one Ayodele Peter, male, aged 25.
“This prompted the immediate deployment of operatives of the Division, supported by intelligence-led policing and a swift tactical response to the scene. The victim was rushed to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Owo, where he was later confirmed d3ad.
“Meanwhile, a coordinated manhunt was launched for the perpetrators which led to the arrest of one suspect in connection with the incident. The suspect has made useful statements and presently in custody while concerted efforts are ongoing to apprehend others at large.
“Commending the operatives for their prompt and decisive response, the Commissioner of Police, Ondo State Command, CP Adebowale Lawal, psc(+), mnips, described their action as professional and commendable, noting that it reflects the Command’s enhanced capacity for enhanced capacity for timeous response to incidents.
“The Commissioner further reassured residents of the Command’s unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property during and after the festive period, stressing that all necessary security measures have been reinforced to sustain peace across the state.
“Consequently, CP Adebowale Lawal has directed all Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers and Tactical Team Commanders to remain vigilant and proactive, ensuring robust security coverage across all areas throughout this period and beyond.
“The Command also appreciates the strategic leadership and continuous support of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, whose reforms and technological initiatives to enhance policing effectiveness in Ondo State.
“The Ondo State Police Command urges members of the public to remain vigilant, cooperate with security agencies, and promptly report any suspicious activities, as collective effort remains vital to the attainment of a safer society.”
