The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Tunji Disu, has warned political parties against engaging in political violence ahead of the Osun State governorship election.
The police chief gave the warning on Friday during separate engagements at the Osun State Government House and the Police Headquarters regarding the lingering political violence in the state.
Disu said he deliberately came to Osun State to engage with political parties and other stakeholders on the need to prevent political violence in the forthcoming governorship election.
He said, “Nobody will commit a crime and go scot-free. You cannot kill anyone and think you can walk around freely. That is why I left Abuja to come here and talk with you today.”
“We are preparing for an election, not a war. I have received many reports against various political parties. We are preparing for an election, not a war. We are going to campaign, and the election will hold. We will campaign and provide security for you during the election in this state.”
“I have listened to the Commissioner of Police, who gave me a briefing. He mentioned that some individuals he is looking for are being harboured in the Government House. That is strange to me.”
“Fortunately, I mentioned this at the Governor’s office, and the Governor replied that even if his own child commits a crime, I should arrest him. The Commissioner of Police, the AIG of the zone, and other officers were there to witness this.”
“Those who are planning to kill whether they are here or anywhere else should know it is not going to be business as usual. Human life is sacred, and nobody has the right to take it. The Commissioner of Police will go after those who have committed these offenses, wherever they may be.”
“We will provide a conducive environment for you to campaign when the time comes,” the IGP assured.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, declared that no one, including members of his family or political associates, should be spared if found culpable of any criminal offense.
He urged the Nigeria Police Force to enforce the law without fear or favour.
While receiving the IGP at the Government House, the Governor said, “If you see any of my people committing a crime, arrest them. All these lies, look, even if it is my son committing a crime, arrest him.”
“I have a security report indicating that in two weeks, some people plan to start shooting again to frighten the public. However, I am glad that the IGP is here and has openly stated that he will not tolerate any act of violence.”
“I will continue to cooperate with the police, the police are our friends,” the governor said.