The Nigeria Police Force has condemned the ongoing violence in Osun State, which has disrupted peace and safety in the state, leading to destruction of property and loss of innocent lives. The violence erupted in Osogbo, Osun State, on Monday as members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) clashed at the Osogbo Central Local Government Area.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., has taken decisive action by ordering the deployment of additional tactical squads to Osun State to bolster security and restore law and order, said the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement. Adejobi stated that the Police recognizes that violence undermines the democratic process and threatens the wellbeing of the citizens, and hereby affirms its commitment to identifying and prosecuting the perpetrators of these acts and causing them to face the full weight of the law.

The conflict began when both parties attempted to enter the council secretariat, resulting in gunshots and a man being seen covered in blood, fighting with another suspected hoodlum. The Osogbo/Ibokun Road, which passes in front of the local government secretariat, was deserted during the shooting. Armed police operatives were stationed at the entrance, while hoodlums responsible for the gunfire shot sporadically, causing panic in the neighborhood. Similar incidents occurred in other local government secretariats across the state.

Adejobi reiterated that the perpetrators of these criminal acts will be fished out and made to face the consequences of their unwarranted ill-fated acts. Olumuyiwa Adejobi urged citizens to remain calm as normalcy is being restored. Osun indigenes, leaders, and stakeholders are hereby urged to shun violence and go about their legitimate businesses. The judiciary remains the ultimate arbiter of all electoral disputes and political actors must respect and abide by its rulings, upholding the rule of law and democratic principles.

Adejobi stated that citizens are advised to go about their lawful business. The Force reiterates its commitment to clamping down on any violent actors who bent on creating brouhaha and breakdown of law and order in any part of the country. The situation in Osun will be closely monitored, and measures will be enforced to ensure a safe environment for all residents.