IGP Raises Fresh Security Concerns Ahead Of Osun Governorship Poll

The Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, on Friday visited Osun State and disclosed that no fewer than 20 people have allegedly lost their lives within the past few months, as fears of possible violence loom large ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

Disu warned political actors against turning the electoral process into a violent confrontation while speaking at a meeting at the Osun State Police Command headquarters in Osogbo.

The police chief told residents and political stakeholders that adequate security arrangements would be put in place to guarantee a peaceful election.

He said he had discussions with Governor Ademola Adeleke during the visit and was briefed in details by the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan.

“If my records are correct, more than 20 people have been killed over the course of a number of months. “We are getting ready for an election, not a war,” Disu said.

He said security agencies had received several allegations and complaints involving members of different political parties in the state.

The IGP also revealed that the commissioner of police had told him that some suspects were being protected in the Government House, a development he described as disturbing.

“I brought the issue up during my meeting with the governor and he responded in unequivocal terms that even if his own child is involved in criminal activity, such a person should be arrested,” Disu said, adding that senior police officers, including the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in-charge of the zone, were present during the discussion.

“The full weight of the law will be meted on anybody who engages in acts of violence or killings, criminal activities will not be tolerated,” the police boss warned.

“You cannot kill someone else and think you are going to walk around free. “That is why I came down from Abuja in person to address this matter,” he said.

Again, Disu stressed that the police would provide a safe environment for political campaigns and the election, and stressed that democratic activities should be peaceful.

We will ensure that all parties campaign freely and safely. But those who are planning violence should know it will not be business as usual. He added: “Human life is sacred, and no one has the right to take it.”

In a video of the IGP and Governor Adeleke meeting meanwhile, the governor insisted his administration was still committed to peace and stability in the state.

ADELEKE reportedly also said that he had no issue arresting any body found to be involved in criminal activities.

The development comes as the political tension in the state is on the increase following the calls by the Imole Campaign Council, which coordinates Adeleke’s re-election campaign, for the redeployment of Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan over allegations of bias and partisanship.