Tragedy in Ondo State: Panic as Motorcyclist Nazifi Ibrahim is Brutally Murdered in Ore

 

Panic and fear swept through the bustling town of Ore, the administrative center of Odigbo Local Government Area in Ondo State, following the gruesome murder of a commercial motorcyclist, Nazifi Ibrahim, by unidentified attackers. The heartbreaking incident occurred on the night of Monday, May 19, 2025, around 10:40 p.m., and has left residents in shock and mourning.

This unfortunate event took place along Alafia Street, which connects to the busy Ore/Benin Expressway, a major route in Southern Nigeria. The road, usually active during the day with commercial activities, became the scene of a horrific crime that has raised fresh concerns about security challenges in Ondo State.

Who Was Nazifi Ibrahim?

The victim, Nazifi Ibrahim, was a commercial motorcycle operator (popularly known as okada rider) who hailed from Northern Nigeria. He was well-known in the Ore community, especially among fellow motorcyclists and his regular passengers. Described by locals as hardworking and peaceful, his sudden and violent death has left a deep scar on the community.

What Happened on That Fateful Night?

According to eyewitnesses and local sources who spoke to NaijaRush, Nazifi had picked up a passenger in the town of Ore and was heading towards Alafia Street. Shortly after reaching the area, he was ambushed by a group of unknown assailants, believed to be motorcycle thieves.

A local resident who requested anonymity explained what little is known about the incident:

“We don’t know what transpired between the deceased and the unknown assailants before he was shot dead,” the source said.

The attack was sudden and brutal. While the exact sequence of events remains unclear, it is widely suspected that the attackers had intentions of snatching the motorcycle, a common crime trend that has plagued many towns and cities across Nigeria in recent years.

The Scene of the Crime: Alafia Street, Ore

Alafia Street, which lies along the Ore/Benin Expressway, is a strategic location with a mix of residential and commercial buildings. Despite its busy nature during the day, the area becomes relatively quiet at night, making it a potential hotspot for criminal activity.

Residents of the area expressed concern about the increasing insecurity and the apparent lack of night patrols by security agencies. Many are now calling on the Ondo State Police Command and local vigilante groups to intensify efforts in securing the town, particularly at night.

Panic and Fear Among Residents

Following the incident, there was widespread panic among residents of Ore. Many have become afraid to go out at night, especially okada riders who now fear for their lives while trying to earn a living.

The murder of Nazifi Ibrahim has not only left his immediate family in grief but has also shaken the entire community. His colleagues in the okada business have staged informal gatherings to mourn him and are considering organizing a protest to demand improved security from the government.

A community elder in Ore who spoke with NaijaRush said:

“This is not the first time criminals have targeted okada riders in this area. But what happened to Nazifi is heartbreaking. We are tired of living in fear every night.”

Police Reaction and Ongoing Investigation

When contacted, a police source from the Ondo State Command confirmed the tragic incident. The officer, who preferred to remain unnamed, assured that the Nigeria Police Force is currently investigating the murder.

“Yes, we are aware of the case. An investigation has commenced with a view to facilitating the arrest and prosecution of the perpetrators,” the source said.

The police have also urged members of the public to come forward with any information that could assist in tracking down those responsible for the killing. As of now, no arrests have been made, but authorities say they are leaving no stone unturned.

Burial in Accordance with Islamic Rites

Nazifi Ibrahim's body was laid to rest in Ore in accordance with Islamic burial rites, shortly after the incident. His family and members of the northern community in Ore came together to perform the solemn rites, offering prayers for the repose of his soul.

It was a quiet and emotional farewell, attended by fellow motorcyclists, friends, and concerned residents who came to pay their last respects. The gravity of the moment highlighted the painful reality that many Nigerians face daily insecurity with little protection.

Growing Security Concerns in Ondo State

The killing of Nazifi Ibrahim is just the latest in a troubling pattern of violent incidents targeting motorcyclists and other vulnerable individuals across the state. Ondo State, like many parts of Nigeria, has seen a rise in armed robbery, kidnapping, and violent crime, especially in semi-urban and rural areas.

Security experts have long warned that inadequate policing, lack of street lighting, unemployment, and poor intelligence gathering contribute to the rise in crimes targeting commercial transport operators, including okada and tricycle riders.

Many stakeholders are now urging the Ondo State Government, led by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, to deploy more resources toward community policing and urban security systems. Several residents who spoke to NaijaRush demanded the installation of street cameras, the presence of community watch groups, and stricter enforcement of night-time security regulations.

The Need for Better Protection for Motorcyclists

Motorcyclists in Nigeria, particularly those working in high-risk areas like Ore, are often targets for criminals because they carry cash and ride easily movable vehicles. Unfortunately, they rarely have any protection.

The National Motorcycle and Tricycle Riders Association of Nigeria (NAMTRAN) has repeatedly appealed to state and federal authorities to address these issues by creating safer work environments and establishing a special security task force to protect commercial riders.

It is hoped that Nazifi Ibrahim’s death will serve as a wake-up call to relevant stakeholders about the urgent need for reform and stronger law enforcement strategies in high-risk zones.

Conclusion: A Call for Justice and Safer Communities

The tragic death of Nazifi Ibrahim has brought to light the terrifying reality faced by many hardworking Nigerians who must operate in unsafe conditions just to survive. His gruesome murder in Ore, Ondo State, has ignited public outcry and once again spotlighted the broader issue of insecurity in Nigeria.

The community demands justice—not just for Nazifi, but for every innocent life lost due to criminal activities. There is also a louder call for proactive policing, community involvement in security, and political will from both state and federal governments to create safer towns and cities across the country.

NaijaRush will continue to monitor this developing story and bring you updates as authorities work to apprehend the perpetrators behind this heartless act. Our thoughts remain with Nazifi’s family and the entire Ore community during this difficult time.