Osun police warn against forceful takeover of LG secretariats

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

The Osun State Police Command has warned against any attempt to forcefully occupy local government secretariats in the state.

The Commissioner of Police (Election), CP Samuel Etaifo Erale, gave the warning on Monday, saying the command had received reports of plans by some individuals or groups to forcefully take over the affairs and premises of local government areas, despite the matter remaining before the court.

In a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, and made available to newsmen, the command stressed that no individual, political group or association had the right to resort to self-help or use force to assume control of any local government area or public institution while judicial proceedings were ongoing.

The commissioner urged all parties to exercise patience and allow the courts to determine the matter in accordance with the law.

He warned that any attempt to forcibly occupy or disrupt local government facilities would be treated as a serious breach of the peace, adding that those found culpable would be arrested and prosecuted.

“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,” Erale said.

The command also urged parents, community and traditional leaders, political and youth leaders, as well as other stakeholders, to caution their supporters against actions capable of undermining peace and security in the state.

Erale congratulated the people of Osun State on the successful and peaceful conclusion of the governorship election and called on residents to remain calm, respect the rule of law and allow the judicial process to run its course.