The Ondo State Police Command has begun a thorough investigation into the mysterious death of a commercial motorcyclist, Isah Ibrahim, whose body was discovered in a well at Ore Stadium in Odigbo Local Government Area.
Ibrahim had been reported missing since August 17, sparking worry among his family, colleagues, and residents of Ore town. His lifeless body was found on Thursday after a community-led search effort.
The discovery has sent shockwaves through the local community, where commercial motorcyclists—commonly known as Okada riders—play a crucial role in daily transportation and economic activities.
DSP Olayinka Ayanlade, the Public Relations Officer of Ondo State Police Command, confirmed the incident. According to him, the State Commissioner of Police, Adebowale Razaq, has ordered a full-scale investigation to uncover the circumstances surrounding Ibrahim’s death.
He appealed to the public to remain calm, assuring that justice will be served:
“A thorough investigation is underway, and those behind this heinous act will be brought to justice,” Ayanlade said.
Community members and colleagues of the deceased have expressed fears that Ibrahim’s death may be connected to the increasing wave of motorcycle snatching in the Ore area.
A fellow commercial motorcyclist, who requested anonymity, described the growing insecurity in the community as a major threat to their livelihood and safety.
“We suspect that Isah may have been targeted by criminals who are currently snatching motorcycles in our area,” the rider said.
“We urge the police and other security agencies to intensify their efforts in tracking and arresting these criminals because our lives and means of earning are under constant threat.”
Motorcycle snatching has become a serious problem across many parts of Nigeria, with riders often attacked, sometimes violently, by gangs seeking to steal their motorcycles for resale or illegal use.
The news of Ibrahim’s death has deepened anxiety among Okada riders and residents of Ore. Many are calling on the government and security forces to step up protection for commercial motorcyclists and other vulnerable groups.
Residents say that without prompt action, these attacks may discourage motorcyclists from working, which would hurt local businesses and daily transportation needs.
An Ore community leader said:
“We are worried about this development. Commercial motorcyclists are vital to our community’s economy. The government must act fast to restore safety and confidence.”
Ondo State, like many other parts of Nigeria, has faced rising insecurity linked to armed robbery, kidnapping, and other crimes. In recent years, motorcycle snatching has emerged as a frequent menace, especially in busy towns and highways.
The state government has reportedly taken measures to improve security, including increasing patrols and collaborating with local vigilante groups. However, residents argue that more is needed to tackle the root causes and protect citizens effectively.
Okada riders serve as a backbone of urban and rural transport in Ondo and many Nigerian states. They provide affordable, quick transport, especially in areas where public transit options are limited or unreliable.
The safety of motorcyclists is therefore critical not only to their families but also to the larger community’s access to mobility and economic activity.
The Ondo State Police Command has reiterated its commitment to bringing those responsible for Ibrahim’s death to justice.
DSP Ayanlade also urged members of the public to cooperate with security agencies by providing any information that could assist the investigation.
He stressed that security agencies will not relent in their fight against crime and violence:
“We call on the people of Ondo State to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police,” he added.
As the investigation continues, many have called on the state government and security agencies to adopt more proactive strategies, such as:
-Increasing police presence in high-risk areas
-Enhancing community policing and intelligence gathering
-Providing protective gear and support for commercial motorcyclists
-Running public awareness campaigns on security and crime prevention
Such measures could help reduce crime rates and restore a sense of safety among residents.
