By Lateef Ibrahim
The Osun State Government and the All Progressives Congress (APC) have resumed their war of words over security in the state following the recent fact-finding visit of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Governor Ademola Adeleke, through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, called on the police to ensure impartial policing before, during and after the election, saying residents deserved a secure environment and equal treatment regardless of political affiliation.
The governor commended the Inspector-General’s visit, noting that it allowed political parties and other stakeholders to present their concerns on the security situation in the state.
He urged the police to implement the outcomes of the engagement to strengthen public confidence in law enforcement.
Adeleke also appealed to the Osun State Commissioner of Police to remain neutral in the investigation and prosecution of cases involving political violence.
According to him, anyone found culpable of breaking the law should be arrested and prosecuted without regard to political affiliation, insisting that his administration does not harbour political thugs.
He further stressed the need for security agencies to guarantee a peaceful atmosphere that would enable voters to freely participate in the governorship election, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies in maintaining law and order.
However, the Osun APC maintained that comments made by the Inspector-General during the visit reinforced its earlier allegations that individuals accused of criminal activities were being shielded within the Government House.
In a statement issued by its Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, the opposition party alleged that the Inspector-General instructed the Osun State Commissioner of Police to professionally investigate the claims and take appropriate action wherever the evidence leads.
The APC also criticised the state government’s handling of security issues, accusing it of politicizing law enforcement and insisting that all allegations of political violence should be thoroughly investigated to ensure accountability ahead of the election.
