Police warn against forceful takeover of Osun LGs

Osun State police have issued a stern warning against any attempt to seize control of local government areas through force, following reports of planned disruptions amid ongoing legal disputes. The warning came from the Osun State Police Command, which emphasized that such actions would constitute a violation of the peace and could lead to arrests and prosecutions. The statement was released on Monday by the Police Public Relations Officer, Abiodun Ojelabi, acting on behalf of the Commissioner of Police (Election), Samuel Erale. According to the police, there have been credible reports of individuals and groups planning to take over local government offices or interfere with their operations. These efforts are reportedly aimed at influencing the outcome of pending legal matters concerning the management of local governments. The police clarified that no person, political entity, or organization has the authority to unilaterally assume control of public institutions during active judicial processes. They stressed that such actions would be considered acts of self-help, which are illegal and disruptive to public order. Ojelabi reiterated that the police would take swift action against anyone attempting to forcibly occupy or disrupt local government facilities. “Any attempt to forcibly occupy or disrupt Local Government facilities will be viewed as a serious breach of the peace and dealt with decisively in accordance with the law, including arrest and prosecution of persons found culpable,” the statement noted. The police also called upon community leaders, traditional rulers, political figures, and youth organizations to advise their followers against engaging in activities that threaten public safety. In addition to addressing the immediate threat, the police acknowledged the success of the recent governorship elections, which concluded peacefully. Erale expressed appreciation for the participation of citizens in the democratic process and encouraged continued adherence to the rule of law. He reminded residents that the judiciary must be allowed to resolve outstanding issues without interference. “The Police will continue to protect lives and property and maintain peace and public order throughout the State,” Ojelabi added. The warning comes amid heightened tensions in the state, particularly around the administration of local governments. Some political actors have been accused of using extrajudicial means to assert influence over administrative structures, raising concerns about the integrity of the legal system. While the police have not named specific groups or individuals, they have indicated that intelligence gathered so far suggests coordinated efforts to undermine the judicial process. Community leaders and civil society representatives have responded cautiously to the police’s message, acknowledging the need for stability. Many have called for dialogue and reconciliation among conflicting parties rather than confrontation. However, some critics argue that the police’s intervention may come too late, given the long-standing disputes over local government control. Others believe the warning serves as a necessary deterrent to prevent escalation into violence. As the situation unfolds, the focus remains on ensuring that legal procedures are respected and that public order is maintained. The police have pledged to monitor developments closely and take appropriate measures should any unlawful activity occur. Meanwhile, the broader implications of the dispute extend beyond local governance, touching on the balance between grassroots activism and institutional authority in Nigeria’s political landscape.