By Bayo Famoroti
A 32-year-old man, identified as Timileyin Apalowo, has been arrested over alleged vandalism and theft of electrical wires connected to shops at Ojido Market in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State.
The suspect was reportedly apprehended around 5:20 a.m. by a female security operative popularly known as Iron Lady, who helps to maintain security in the area.
Speaking on the incident, Iron Lady alleged that the suspect had repeatedly cut and stolen electrical wires from shops in the market, forcing traders to spend money regularly on replacement and reconnection.
She also recounted that her brother, whom she had trained to assist her with security duties in the area, was killed in July 2026. According to her, no one came to their aid at the time. She said the incident strengthened her resolve to continue protecting the area against theft and other criminal activities.
Some traders and residents of Ojido Market, who spoke on the development, said they had repeatedly purchased replacement wires and paid for reconnection without knowing that the alleged culprit was responsible for the recurring incidents.
The suspect was reportedly at risk of being mobbed by an angry crowd before Iron Lady took him to Odo-Ado Police Division for further investigation.
Speaking on the matter, the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Odo-Ado Police Division, Ado-Ekiti, Mr Olusegun Daramola, assured that the suspect would be taken to court for appropriate legal proceedings if the allegations were established.
Daramola appealed to traders and shop owners in Ojido Market to promptly report suspicious activities and security concerns to the police, assuring them that the command remained committed to protecting lives and property.
He urged members of the public not to take the law into their own hands but to allow the police to investigate reported cases and ensure that justice is served..
