About six people have lost their lives in a power struggle for the Local Government Secretariat between the All Progressive Congress (APC) and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State on Monday.
The Osun State Police Command made the disclosure in a statement on Tuesday. More so, the police revealed how the tussle left six people dead while many others are currently in hospital.
According to reports, the crisis began on Monday after a Court of Appeal in Akure reinstated the APC-elected chairpersons and councillors who were dismissed in 2022.
While APC insisted that the court’s ruling had specifically put the local government officials back in their positions, the state government countered that this was not the case.
However, APC members forceful attempts to take over council secretariats led to violent clashes with PDP supporters who resisted the move, escalating tension in several local government areas in the state.
Police vows to restore order
Addressing this conflagration, the command’s spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola expressed sympathy for those who lost their loved ones and property. She added that the Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Abba has met with various groups to prevent the recurrence of such misfortune.
Opalola stressed that the CP is assuring the public of a thorough investigation that would let justice prevail.
Further, the spokesperson warned that mobile policemen from outside Osun state have been deployed in a bid to restore peace. Therefore, everyone should desist from engaging in activities that could disrupt the peace of the state.
Additionally, Opalola urged residents to remain calm and patient while security operatives carry out their duties to restore peace in Osun.
Electoral commission debunks military presence in Osun
Meanwhile, the management of the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission debunked rumors circulating that the premises of the commission is under closure by the Nigerian Army.
The Commission’s Information Officer, Sadiat Isiaka who debunked this in a statement on Tuesday, urged the public to ignore the rumors. Isiaka said the premises of OSIEC are evidently safe and well-secured from the presence of inter-agency security personnel.
Additionally, Isiaka assured that the coming local government election would proceed according to schedule. According to her, the election will commence by Saturday, February 22, 2025.
Lastly, she urged that misinformation concocted by some miscreants should not hinder the people from participating in the election.
