Don’t resort to forceful takeover of Osun LG councils — Police warn

By Ismail Azeez

The Osun State Police Command has warned individuals and groups against any attempt to forcefully take over the affairs or premises of Local Government Areas in the state while the matter remains before the court.

The Commissioner of Police (Election), CP Samuel Etaifo Erale, gave the warning in a statement issued on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi.

Erale congratulated the people of Osun State on the successful and peaceful conclusion of the recent governorship election and commended stakeholders for their participation in the democratic process.

He noted that the command had received reports of plans by some individuals and groups to forcefully take control of Local Government Areas and their facilities.

He said, “The Police Command wishes to state clearly that no individual, political group, or association has the right to resort to self-help or the use of force to assume control of any Local Government Area or public institution while judicial proceedings are ongoing.”

“All parties are urged to exercise patience and allow the courts to determine the matter in accordance with the law. Any attempt to forcibly occupy or disrupt Local Government facilities will be viewed as a serious breach of the peace and dealt with decisively in accordance with the law, including the arrest and prosecution of persons found culpable.”

“Parents, community and traditional leaders, political and youth leaders, and other stakeholders are enjoined to counsel their supporters against acts capable of undermining the peace and security of the state.”

“The Commissioner of Police calls on all citizens of Osun State to remain calm, respect the rule of law, and allow the judicial process to run its course, while assuring that the police will continue to protect lives and property and maintain peace and public order throughout the state,” the statement read.