The Commissioner of Police in Oyo State, CP Ayodele Sonubi has commended Comrade Victor Olojede, the Senior Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Student Affairs, for his role in diffusing tensions during the 2020 EndSARS protests in the state.
According to the CP, while speaking at stakeholders meeting on Monday, at Police Headquarters, Eleyele ahead of nationwide protest, he said Olojede was instrumental in preventing the burning down of the Testing Ground Police Divisional Station during the protests. At the time, the CP was serving as the Area Commander of the Testing Ground station.
“When the protests were at their peak, the angry youths, who were mostly students, were about to set the police station on fire.”
“But Mr. Olojede stepped in and mediated the situation peacefully. He appealed to the protesters not to destroy the station, and when the police officers got agitated, he was able to calm them down and restore normalcy.”
The CP praised Olojede’s conflict resolution efforts, noting that his intervention was crucial in avoiding further escalation of the situation.
For his part, Olojede urged the youths, particularly students, to continue their planned nationwide protest on August 1st in a peaceful manner.
He reiterated the position of Governor Seyi Makinde, who has repeatedly emphasized the importance of non-violent demonstrations in the interest of the people of Oyo State.
“Governor Makinde has always advocated for the right of citizens to engage in peaceful protests.”
“I call on the youths to exercise their democratic rights, but to also do so in a civil and responsible manner, avoiding any actions that could lead to the destruction of public property or violence.”
The commendation from the Oyo State Commissioner of Police underscores Olojede’s efforts in promoting peace and conflict resolution, particularly during challenging times when tensions are high.
His work in preventing the escalation of the EndSARS protests has been lauded as a testament to his commitment to serving the people of Oyo State.