Pandemonium unfolded during the ongoing Ogun State Sports Writer Association of Nigeria (SWAN) football competition as officers from the Nigeria Police Force and South-West Security Outfits, known as Amotekun corps, engaged in a chaotic brawl. The dispute arose from a contested decision by the match referee, Ayo Amos, leading to a violent confrontation between the two security teams.
The turmoil began in the 65th minute of the match when the center referee issued red cards to players from both the police and Amotekun teams for misconduct on the field. One of the Amotekun players, displeased with the decision, invaded the pitch and assaulted a police player, resulting in an injury.
An eyewitness, who chose to remain anonymous, described the escalating tension as Amos issued a red card to Amotekun defender Akinloye Babatunde for violent conduct towards police player Odukoya Olanrewaju. In retaliation, Olanrewaju was also sent off the field.
The situation took a dark turn when the red-carded Amotekun defender, Akinloye, returned to the pitch, attacking Constable Adesina James, one of the police players. Spectators rushed onto the field to rescue the police officer from the assault by the Amotekun player. Shockingly, Amotekun defender Tejuoso Segun armed himself with a charm and a broken bottle, launching an attack on Inspector Ogunremi Oluwafemi, causing a deep cut injury to his lower jaw.
Chairman of Ogun SWAN, Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji, strongly condemned the violent actions of the Amotekun Corps. He emphasized that the competition was designed to promote good conduct, enhance relationships among security officers, and instill discipline in their behavior, both on and off the field.
Ogunsiji added that trained security personnel should demonstrate restraint and self-control, even in challenging situations. The unruly behavior displayed by Amotekun officers did not align with their role in protecting the public. He asserted that the association would take appropriate measures against agencies disrupting the competition, stating, “This time around, we won’t sweep this under the carpet. As organizers, we will report the agency and their officers to the Ogun State Head of Service for punitive action, setting a precedent for others.”
The Public Relations Officer of the Amotekun Corps, Abayomi Osonaike, did not provide further details about the incident, citing that he was not present at the scene. Efforts to reach Ogun State Police spokesperson, Omolola Odutola, were unsuccessful at the time of this report.
The clash between the police and Amotekun serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining discipline and sportsmanship, even in competitive settings. While the incident is concerning, it presents an opportunity for a broader discussion on professionalism and restraint among security personnel.
Source: [Punch]
