Osun CSOs, student groups reject calls for redeployment of police commissioner

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

A coalition of civil society organisations and student bodies in Osun State has described the ongoing campaign and public demonstrations calling for the redeployment of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, as “unfortunate, ill-advised and capable of undermining ongoing security efforts.”

The CSOs, under the aegis of the League of Peace Ambassadors, Humanity and Human Rights Advocates (LOPAHHRA), in conjunction with the Nigerian Association of Colleges of Education Students, Osun State Chapter, stated this at a press conference in Osogbo.

The statement was jointly read by Ambassador Faith Adeniyi, spokesperson of LOPAHHRA, Osun State Chapter; Comrade Ayanwole Kehinde Ayantayo, Chairman of the Nigerian Association of Colleges of Education Students, Osun State Chapter; Abubakar Musefiu, Assistant General Secretary of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Zone D; and Comrade Olawale Taofeeq Akande, Chairman of the Osun Youth Elites Movement.

The groups noted that since Gotan’s deployment to Osun State, he has demonstrated commitment, professionalism, and courage in the discharge of his constitutional responsibilities.

The groups said the development raised questions about the motives behind the agitation, noting reports suggesting that the rally currently taking place in Osogbo may have political undertones and could be connected to interests within the Osun State Government.

They said, “This development naturally raises legitimate questions regarding the real motives behind the ongoing agitation. We have also noted reports suggesting that the rally currently taking place in Osogbo may have political undertones and may be connected to interests within the Osun State Government.

“The present situation bears a striking resemblance to the campaign allegedly mounted against CSP Moses Lohor following the arrest of a government appointee, Nurudeen Alowonle, who was reportedly apprehended with a pistol and ammunition about two years ago. Rather than insisting on the diligent prosecution of the suspect, the pressure that followed reportedly culminated in the redeployment of CSP Lohor from the state”.

The groups called on the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and other security authorities to resist any pressure that could undermine professionalism, due process, and operational independence within the Nigeria Police Force.