Osun: Police warn against politicising security matters

Osun State Police Command has warned politicians and political parties against politicising security matters and cautioned against reckless and inflammatory statements which could undermine public confidence in security institutions and interfere with ongoing investigations.

In a press release issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of CP Ibrahim Gotan, the Commissioner of Police, the Command expressed concern over what it described as a growing tendency among some political stakeholders to attach political motives to security-related developments in the state.

The Command warned political party chairmen, spokespersons, campaign directors-general and other stakeholders to refrain from making what it called unfounded statements capable of inciting public disorder or eroding trust in law enforcement agencies.

According to the statement, “attempts to distort facts for political advantage are irresponsible and detrimental to public peace and security.”

It added that individuals found spreading falsehoods or engaging in actions capable of inciting unrest would be held accountable in accordance with the law.

The Command also addressed a statement attributed to Pastor Victor Akande, Chairman of the Osun Accord, alleging that the Divisional Police Officer of Dada Estate Division was transferred because of his handling of a recent incident in Okinni and his concern for the victims.

Rejecting the allegation, the Police described the claim as “false, misleading, and capable of creating unnecessary tension among members of the public.”

The statement explained that “the transfer formed part of a routine administrative reshuffle involving about 20 Divisional Police Officers across the Osun State Command.”

According to the Command, “the exercise was conducted as part of a strategic operational review aimed at improving policing effectiveness, introducing fresh operational approaches and addressing emerging security challenges across the state.”

The Police urged members of the public to disregard any attempt to associate the transfer of any officer with ongoing investigations or political considerations.

The Command stated that investigations were still ongoing, adding that the Commissioner of Police had directed “a swift, thorough, professional, and non-partisan investigation to establish the facts and ensure justice is served.”

Reaffirming its commitment to protecting lives and property, the Command said policing activities would continue to be carried out without fear, favour, bias, or political influence, while urging residents to remain law-abiding and allow investigators to perform their lawful duties without undue interference or politicisation.