Nigerian Police Warn Against Forceful Takeover Of Osun Local Gov’t Secretariats, Cite Court Case | Sahara Reporters

The police said no individual, political group or association has the right to use force or resort to self-help to take control of a local government area while judicial proceedings are ongoing.

The Osun State Police Command has warned political groups and other individuals against forcibly taking over local government areas and public facilities in the state, saying anyone who attempts to do so would be arrested and prosecuted.

The warning was issued on Tuesday by the Commissioner of Police in charge of the election, Samuel Etaifo Erale, amid renewed concerns over attempts by some groups to assume control of local government areas while the dispute over their administration remains before the courts.

The police said no individual, political group or association has the right to use force or resort to self-help to take control of a local government area while judicial proceedings are ongoing.

The command said any attempt to occupy or disrupt local government facilities would be treated as a serious breach of the peace.

“The police command wishes to state clearly 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 are ongoing,” the command said.

The police warned that persons found attempting to forcibly occupy local government facilities would face arrest and prosecution. It also urged all parties involved in the dispute to wait for the courts to determine the matter according to law.

Erale further called on parents, community and traditional leaders, as well as political and youth leaders, to caution their supporters against actions capable of causing violence or disrupting public order.

The commissioner also urged residents to remain calm and respect the judicial process, assuring them that the police would continue to protect lives and property and maintain peace across the state.

The warning comes after months of controversy over who should control the local government areas in Osun State.

The dispute has involved political actors and former council officials, with legal proceedings continuing over the administration of the councils.

The latest police statement followed the recent governorship election in the state. Erale congratulated Osun residents on what he described as the peaceful conclusion of the election and commended stakeholders for participating in the democratic process.

The police said it would continue to monitor developments and take action against anyone whose activities threaten peace or disrupt public institutions while the legal dispute is being resolved.