Kwara State Police Reacts To Churchs’ Cross Over Night Attack By Islam Faithfuls
On 1st of January, we reported that a Nigerian Pastor based in Ilorin alleged that his church was attacked by some Muslims during their cross over night service, alongside 4 other churches.
Kwara State Police Command who have reacted to the report, however said the attack has no religious undertone. Here’s the statement in full text;
“The Kwara State Police Command wishes to assure the good people of Kwara state, of its capacity to deal decisively with anybody arrested, for being a part of the breakdown of law and order that was witnessed in Taiwo Isale area of Ilorin, by hoodlums early this morning, in spite the peace and harmony being enjoyed in the state before, during the yuletide and even now.
At about 02;00am of today[01/01/2017], some youths that were prevented from carrying out what was termed New year carnival by the community leaders of the area for fear of the process turning into a security threat, owing to previous years experiences.
In protest to the denial, the youths resorted into throwing bangers indiscriminately at all gatherings in the vicinity including religious gatherings celebrating the new year cross -over services, three (3) persons were injured in the resulting stampede, both the catholic, methodist and other churches in the area, including a muslim group called Quareeb team, holding their programme in an adjoining school were attacked, some vehicles belonging to both worshippers were damaged.
It is important to note, that the attack has no religious undertone. It is simple an unlawful act by the disgruntled youths of the area, as both the Christian and Muslim gatherings in the area werr attacked.
Ten (10) suspects have been arrested, the injured already taken to the hospital and are responding to treatment. Investigation into the matter has commenced.
Good people of Kwara are admonished to continue with their lawful endeavours and disregard the insinuation that the crisis was between the Muslim and Christian, as Kwara state is known for her harmonious relationship among all religious group, please.
Dsp Ajayi Okasanmi
Police Public Relations Officers
Kwara state Command
For; Commissioner of Police
Kwara State Command.”
