Confirmation from SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the Lagos State Police Public Relations Officer, reveals the arrest of 32 suspects in connection with a violent attack on a Ministry of Education team at the Federal College of Education (Technical) in the Akoka area of Lagos.
As reported by Hundeyin, the team was dispatched to mediate a prolonged conflict between the college’s staff and the Provost, who had been prevented from accessing his office.
The situation took a violent turn when both staff and students launched an attack on the team, resulting in the destruction of more than five vehicles and the Provost’s residence.
In response to the chaos that ensued, the rioters also barricaded all entry and exit points of the college, leading to the intervention of law enforcement.
Hundeyin addressed the incident following a viral report by an individual known as Tomisin, using the alias #TomisinWhyte on X.com, which highlighted police actions like shooting and tear gas utilization amidst the protests.
#TomisinWhyte’s tweet read, “Emergency Alert. Reports indicate police involvement in shooting and use of tear gas against students at Akoka Road.
“This is happening in the midst of ongoing protests. Please assist in spreading the word.”
Hundeyin provided clarity on the situation, underscoring the need for police action to uphold peace and order.
In his statement, Hundeyin expressed, “For a period exceeding three months, the Provost of the Federal College of Education (Technical), Akoka was locked out of his office by the staff, hindering his official duties.
“A delegation convened by the Minister of Education arrived at the institution today to address the lingering dispute. Nevertheless, the college’s staff, with support from students, attacked the visiting team from Abuja, resulting in the damage of over five vehicles and the Provost’s official residence.
“Furthermore, the riotous behavior of the staff and students extended to blocking all entries and exits of the college premises. The police promptly arrived on the scene, quelling the disturbance after facing attacks with stones and water sachets from the rioters.
“At present, 32 suspects have been apprehended, while officers from the Nigeria Police Force stationed at Area Command, Surulere, are supervising to ensure the continuity of restored peace.”
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