Osun Poll: Accord, Police Trade Words Over Security

The Osun State chapter of the Accord Party and the Osun State Police Command have disagreed over the security situation in the state as political activities increase ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election. Both sides defended their positions on Wednesday while responding to concerns about law enforcement and public safety.

The disagreement began after the Accord Party accused the police of failing to remain neutral in handling recent security incidents across the state. In a statement issued by its state chairman, Pastor Victor Akande, the party claimed that people believed to be linked to the All Progressives Congress (APC) had continued to operate freely despite allegations of involvement in violent acts.

Accord also alleged that recent police actions were selective, claiming that transport union members who were not aligned with a particular political group had faced arrests and harassment. The party said several reported incidents, including alleged gunfire in Ido-Osun and disputes over motor parks, had not received proper investigation.

The party called on the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to order a thorough investigation into all reported cases of violence across Osun State. It also urged security agencies to stop what it described as arbitrary arrests and ensure that every investigation is based on available evidence rather than political considerations.

Reacting to the allegations, the Osun State Police Command denied claims of bias and maintained that it remains committed to carrying out its constitutional duties without favouring any political party or individual.

In a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, the police said their operations are guided by intelligence and evidence, not political pressure or reports circulating on social media.

The command explained that several suspects connected with breaches of public peace had already been arrested, investigated and taken to court where enough evidence existed. It added that investigations into other reported incidents are still ongoing.

The police also disclosed that some suspects arrested during investigations admitted to plans to obtain arms and ammunition for further violent activities. According to the command, those confessions formed part of the ongoing investigations.

The Commissioner of Police maintained that no individual is above the law, adding that neither political affiliation nor membership of any transport union protects anyone from investigation or prosecution where evidence is available.

With the governorship election drawing closer, both the Accord Party and the police have continued to defend their positions, while attention remains focused on maintaining peace and ensuring a secure environment for voters throughout the election period.