The Osun Democratic Coalition has alleged that the Nigerian Police Force is planning to disrupt the local government elections in Osun State through targeted attacks on citizens.
According to the group, a large deployment of Mobile Police (MOPOL) officers across the state is aimed at provoking chaos, particularly by targeting members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Speaking to journalists, the state coordinator of the coalition, Comrade Yeken Inaolaji, accused the police of partisanship, claiming that their presence was not for security but to create instability.
“We have credible information that MOPOL operatives have been sent to attack innocent people to make it appear as if the state is in crisis,” he said.
“If blood is shed on Saturday, the public should hold the police responsible. Their ultimate plan is to escalate tensions and create grounds for a state of emergency. However, the people of Osun will not be deceived by this plot.”
Inaolaji called on the police to maintain neutrality and allow the electoral process to proceed without interference.
In response, the Osun State government rejected a security advisory from the police, insisting on upholding the rule of law.
The Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi, issued a statement dismissing the police directive to suspend the elections, describing it as biased and politically motivated.
“After thoroughly reviewing the police’s recommendation, the government has concluded that it is partisan and does not align with democratic principles,” Alimi stated.
He accused the police of siding with the All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that they attempted to enforce an order that no court of law had issued.
“The police’s involvement in this matter has been questionable from the start. Their open support for the APC, despite the absence of a legal basis, is evident. Everyone knows how they helped the APC push for reinstatement without any legitimate court ruling,” he added.
Alimi further referenced a recent court judgment affirming the removal of APC council officials and authorizing fresh local government elections. He criticized the police for disregarding this legal ruling while allegedly pursuing a political agenda.
“Rather than following the court’s directive, the police have chosen to act in a way that undermines the rule of law. However, the Osun State government remains committed to ensuring a free, fair, and credible election as scheduled,” he said.
The statement concluded by reaffirming the government’s decision to proceed with the election and encouraging residents to participate peacefully.
(Prompt news)