Osun political killings have become a major security concern ahead of the August 15 governorship election, with the Nigeria Police Force confirming that it has recorded 30 cases of alleged politically motivated murders across the state. The police said investigations are ongoing, while several suspects have already been arrested and prosecuted as authorities intensify efforts to curb
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, disclosed the figure on Tuesday during an appearance on Channels Television’s Morning Brief, monitored by the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).
According to Iniedu, police investigations have led to several arrests, with some suspects already paraded before the public and others facing prosecution in court. He, however, declined to disclose the identities of suspects or provide specific details about the cases, stating that doing so could prejudice ongoing court proceedings.
“From the complaints received, we cannot rule out the involvement of some politicians in the killings,” Iniedu said.
He assured Nigerians that more information would be made available after investigations are concluded and the judicial process has run its course.
Responding to allegations that the police were complicit in the political crisis or protecting influential individuals, Iniedu dismissed the claims, insisting that the Force would not participate in any cover-up. According to him, accusations against the police often increase during election periods as rival political camps exchange allegations.
“It is logical that when an election is coming up, there will be accusatory fingers pointed by the gladiators, particularly against the police.”
He added that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has directed officers nationwide to ensure that anyone found involved in criminal activities is identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
Iniedu recalled that the Inspector General of Police recently visited Osogbo, the Osun State capital, following growing political tension and reports of pre-election violence. During the visit, the IGP met with Governor Ademola Adeleke, opposition leaders and other stakeholders, urging all political actors to reject violence and promote peaceful conduct ahead of the governorship election. According to the police spokesperson, the discussions focused on preventing thuggery, maintaining public order and ensuring a peaceful electoral process.
“When we were in Osogbo, the IGP met with every stakeholder. The Governor and the opposition made accusations and counter accusations.”
He said the IGP maintained that the police would not tolerate any breakdown of law and order regardless of political affiliation. The police chief also appealed to parents and guardians to discourage their children and wards from allowing themselves to be recruited as political thugs.
Addressing allegations of partisanship against the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, Iniedu disclosed that the Inspector General met directly with the commissioner over the concerns raised. According to him, the IGP issued clear directives on professional conduct and warned that continuous accusations and counter-accusations would not be tolerated. He added that the intervention has already begun yielding positive results.
To strengthen security ahead of the August 15 governorship election, the Nigeria Police Force has deployed specialised tactical units, drones and helicopters to Osun State. Iniedu said the enhanced deployment is supported by improved intelligence gathering and collaboration with other security agencies to prevent violence and respond swiftly to emerging threats.
He also disclosed that the Nigeria Police Force currently has more than 400,000 active personnel across the country, assuring residents that adequate resources are being mobilised to safeguard lives, property and the electoral process throughout the election period.
