The Osun State Police Command has cautioned politicians and political parties against dragging security matters into politics, warning that reckless and provocative statements could weaken public trust in security agencies and disrupt ongoing investigations.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, the command expressed concern over what it described as an increasing trend of political actors assigning political motives to security developments in the state.
The police warned party chairmen, spokespersons, campaign directors-general and other political stakeholders against making baseless claims capable of inciting unrest or undermining confidence in law enforcement agencies.
According to the command, attempts to twist facts for political gain are irresponsible and pose a threat to public peace and security.
It added that anyone found spreading false information or engaging in actions likely to trigger disorder would be dealt with in line with the law.
The command also reacted to claims made by Victor Akande, who alleged that the Divisional Police Officer of Dada Estate Division was transferred over his handling of a recent incident in Okinni and his concern for the victims.
Dismissing the allegation, the police described it as false, misleading and capable of causing unnecessary tension among residents.
The statement clarified that the officer’s transfer was part of a routine administrative reshuffle involving about 20 Divisional Police Officers within the Osun command.
According to the police, the reshuffle was carried out as part of a strategic operational review aimed at strengthening policing efficiency, introducing fresh strategies and tackling emerging security challenges across the state.
The command urged the public to ignore attempts to link the transfer of any officer to ongoing investigations or political interests.
It added that investigations into the matter are still ongoing, noting that the Commissioner of Police had ordered a swift, thorough, professional and impartial probe to establish the facts and ensure justice.
Reaffirming its commitment to safeguarding lives and property, the command stressed that policing in the state would continue without fear, favour or political influence, while urging residents to remain law-abiding and allow security agencies to carry out their duties without interference.
BACKSTORY:
The warning by the Osun State Police Command comes amid rising political tension ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, where political parties have intensified campaigns and public engagements.
In recent weeks, concerns over security have grown following reports of isolated violent incidents, kidnappings and clashes in some parts of the state, prompting both the police and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to step up preparations.
The controversy was further fueled by claims from Victor Akande, who alleged that the transfer of the Divisional Police Officer in Dada Estate was politically motivated and linked to the handling of a recent incident in Okinni. The police, however, insist the redeployment was part of a broader administrative reshuffle involving multiple officers.
With the election drawing closer and Governor Ademola Adeleke seeking re-election, security agencies are under pressure to maintain neutrality and prevent political actors from exploiting security issues to influence public perception or escalate tensions.
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