Osun Police Command Issues Stern Warning Over LG Takeovers

The Osun State Police Command has issued a strong caution to individuals and groups contemplating the forceful seizure of local government premises or administrative functions within the state. This warning was communicated in a statement released on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, acting on behalf of the Commissioner of Police (Election), Samuel Erale.

According to the command, intelligence reports indicate plans by certain individuals or groups to forcibly assume control of local government areas, despite the ongoing legal proceedings concerning these matters in court. The police emphasized that such actions would constitute self-help and a direct breach of public peace.

Ojelabi stated unequivocally, "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." The law enforcement agency appealed to all involved parties to exercise patience and allow the judicial system to resolve the disputes according to due process.

Furthermore, the command warned that any person found attempting to forcibly occupy or disrupt facilities belonging to local governments would face immediate arrest and prosecution. The statement partly read, "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 arrest and prosecution of persons found culpable."

The police leadership called upon parents, traditional and community leaders, as well as political and youth leaders and other stakeholders, to advise their supporters against engaging in activities that could jeopardize the state's peace and security.

In a related development, Erale extended his congratulations to the residents of Osun State for the successful and peaceful conclusion of the recent gubernatorial election. He also commended all stakeholders for their participation in the democratic process. He reiterated the call for residents to maintain calm, uphold the rule of law, and permit the legal process to unfold. Ojelabi concluded by affirming, "The Police will continue to protect lives and property and maintain peace and public order throughout the State."