Osun: Police warn against forceful takeover of LG secretariats

The Commissioner of Police in Osun, Samuel Etaifo, has warned against forceful takeover of Local Government secretariats, premises or properties in the state.

Etaifo, who gave the warning in a statement on Monday in Osogbo, said that those planning to forcefully take over local government secretariats would be arrested and prosecuted.

He noted that there were reports of plans by some individuals or groups to forcefully take over the affairs and premises of local government secretariats, not minding that the matter is in court.

Etaifo stated that no individual, political group, or association has the right to resort to self-help or the use of force to assume control of any local government area or public institution, while judicial proceedings were ongoing on such administrative matters.

He urged all parties to exercise patience and allow the court to determine the matter in accordance with the law.

“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,” Etaifo stated.

He charged parents, community and traditional leaders, political and youth leaders, and other stakeholders to counsel their supporters against acts capable of undermining the peace and security of the state.
He equally called on all citizens of Osun to remain calm, respect the rule of law, and allow the judicial process to run its course.

Etaifo assured that the police would continue to protect lives and property, and maintain peace and order throughout the state.