Police chief says suspects are allegedly being sheltered by political actors as Governor Adeleke urges security agencies to arrest anyone found culpable.
Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has alleged that political parties in Osun State are harbouring suspected criminals, warning that the Nigeria Police Force will investigate all reported cases ahead of the state’s governorship election.
Speaking during a visit to Governor Ademola Adeleke in Osogbo, Disu disclosed that the Osun State Commissioner of Police had informed him that some wanted suspects were allegedly being sheltered in the Government House. He said he had directed the commissioner on the appropriate steps to handle the situation, stressing that no individual or political party should shield criminal elements.
Responding, Governor Adeleke urged the police to arrest anyone involved in criminal activities, regardless of their political affiliation or relationship with him.
“If you see any of my people that committed a crime, arrest them. If it is my son who committed a crime, arrest him,” the governor said, while calling for a thorough investigation into violent crimes across the state.
Addressing representatives of political parties at the Osun State Police Command, Disu assured stakeholders that all allegations and counter-allegations would be thoroughly investigated. He also warned against the use of unregistered vehicles and directed the police to impound any found violating the law.
During the meeting, the All Progressives Congress (APC) accused the state government of using the Amotekun Corps to intimidate political opponents and alleged that hoodlums were being sheltered in the Government House. However, the Accord Party rejected the claims, accusing the APC of similar acts of violence and alleging selective enforcement by security agencies.