Panic in Ondo as youths protest alleged killing of motorcyclist

By Boye Oyeyemi –

Tension gripped parts of Ore, Ondo State, as angry youths staged a protest over the alleged killing of a 29-year-old commercial motorcyclist in the early hours of the day.

The incident reportedly occurred around 6:10 a.m. along the Ore–Benin Expressway when the victim, identified as Sola, was allegedly shot under unclear circumstances by unknown gunmen.

Eyewitnesses said the deceased was flagged down by unidentified armed men, and moments later, residents heard a gunshot. The assailants allegedly fled, leaving the victim lying in a pool of blood beside his motorcycle.

Traders and early morning commuters who discovered the body raised the alarm, drawing a crowd to the scene.

By about 8 a.m., dozens of commercial motorcyclists and youths had gathered, blocking part of the expressway while demanding justice for the deceased and improved security, citing what they described as repeated killings in the area.

“We are not safe anymore. Every week we hear about attacks and killings in our community. Now they have killed one of us again,” one protester said.

The protest caused temporary traffic congestion as motorists sought alternative routes. Security operatives later arrived to disperse the crowd and restore calm.

Authorities confirmed that an investigation has commenced but did not immediately release details about the attackers or possible motives. Meanwhile, tension remains high as residents call on the government and security agencies to increase patrols, especially during early morning and late evening hours. The body of the deceased has been deposited at a nearby morgue.