Abuja lawyer petitions IGP over reported political killings in Osun
Lawyer Appeals to Inspector General of Police Over Violence in Osun State
ABUJA—Pelumi Olajengbesi, an Abuja-based lawyer, has formally petitioned Inspector General of Police Tunde Disu to address the ongoing violence in Osun State, allegedly perpetrated by political thugs.
In his petition, submitted on Thursday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, Olajengbesi expressed grave concerns about the rise in unprovoked killings, which he argues threaten public safety, democratic governance, and the integrity of the upcoming governorship election scheduled for August 15.
Olajengbesi highlighted a disturbing trend of election-related violence that has led to numerous casualties and widespread fear across varied communities in Osun State. He criticized the Osun State Police Command for what he described as complacency in addressing these violent incidents, despite multiple reports being filed.
Among his requests, Olajengbesi urged the IGP to initiate a thorough investigation into each instance of political violence and to ensure that all individuals involved—whether in the capacity of perpetrators, sponsors, or facilitators—are identified and prosecuted, regardless of political affiliation.
He also called for the immediate deployment of additional police personnel to known hotspots within Osun State and advocated for a comprehensive review of the state’s security framework to safeguard the electoral process.
Furthermore, he requested the redeployment of the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, asserting that this change is essential to restoring public confidence in law enforcement during elections. He urged all police formations in the state to uphold the law impartially throughout the electoral period.
The petition states, “I write in my capacity as a legal practitioner, a concerned citizen of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and the Spokesperson of the Imole Campaign Council (TICC), to respectfully draw your attention to the deteriorating security situation in Osun State and to seek your urgent intervention.”
It also notes the tragic case of 14-year-old Ezekiel Olapade, who was killed in Ilobu, Irepodun Local Government Area, as part of a broader pattern of violence affecting various regions in the state.
Included in the petition are detailed schedules listing the names of victims, dates and locations of incidents, witness statements, and other relevant materials, which collectively underscore serious concerns about the current security climate in Osun State.
Olajengbesi concluded his appeal by emphasizing the necessity for a decisive response to prevent further violence, allowing for credible elections that reflect the will of the people, free from intimidation and conflict. He urged the IGP to treat the petition with the urgency it demands, stressing that the preservation of life and the integrity of Nigeria’s democracy are at stake.
