Osun police warn against politicising security matters

The Osun State Police Command has cautioned politicians and political parties against politicising security issues and warned against making reckless or inflammatory remarks that could erode public confidence in law‑enforcement agencies or interfere with ongoing investigations.

In a press release issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, speaking on behalf of CP Ibrahim Gotan, the Commissioner of Police, the Command expressed concern about a growing tendency among certain political stakeholders to attach political motives to security developments in the state.

The Command urged political party leaders, spokespersons, campaign directors‑general and other stakeholders to refrain from making unfounded statements that could incite public disorder or undermine trust in law‑enforcement bodies.

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

It added that individuals who spread falsehoods or engage in actions that could incite unrest would be held accountable in accordance with the law.

The Command also addressed a claim attributed to Pastor Victor Akande, Chairman of the Osun Accord, who alleged that the Divisional Police Officer of the Dada Estate Division had been 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 the public to disregard any attempt to link the transfer of an officer with ongoing investigations or political considerations.

The Command stated that investigations were still underway, 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.