…a rejoinder to the Osun CP’s press briefing
The recent press briefing by the Osun State Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, offered assurances of professionalism, neutrality, and a commitment to addressing cultism, political thuggery, and other violent crimes. On paper, those words are reassuring. Yet for many residents of Osun State, words are no longer sufficient. When public confidence in the neutrality of the police has been shaken, “your best” must mean decisive action.
On several occasions, your attention was drawn to repeated attacks and reported killings allegedly carried out by individuals believed to be affiliated with the APC against innocent residents of Osun. Many of the victims are not members of any political party. They are ordinary citizens who want a better future for the state.
We repeatedly raised concerns that anyone seen wearing a cap, shirt, or other items branded with Accord insignia was allegedly being targeted on roads, in streets, and even at home. Numerous alerts, petitions, and public appeals were sent to your office urging prompt intervention. Unfortunately, no decisive action was observed. That inaction left many questioning the Command’s commitment to protecting lives and property.
It is therefore difficult to understand why a press statement is being issued only now that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Tunji Disu, has intervened on security matters in Osun State. These steps should have been taken months ago when the violence first surfaced. The prolonged silence created the impression that the situation was not given the urgency it deserved.
That silence has raised concerns about whether political considerations influenced the handling of these incidents. When law enforcement appears reluctant to act until higher authorities intervene, public confidence in the neutrality and professionalism of the Police is undermined.
Given these developments, many citizens have lost confidence in the current leadership of the Osun State Police Command. The people deserve a Police Command that acts swiftly, impartially, and without fear or favour, regardless of the political affiliation of those involved.
For an officer who has served the Nigeria Police Force for nearly 35 years, this stage of your career should be about protecting the integrity and reputation you have built. Rather than having your name linked to public doubts about impartiality, this is the time to reinforce trust through consistent, even-handed policing.
The people of Osun are not asking for speeches. They are asking for visible fairness. Every citizen, regardless of political affiliation, deserves equal protection under the law. Every person accused of wrongdoing should be investigated and treated without fear or favour. Public trust in the Police grows when neutrality is demonstrated in practice, not merely stated.
As the state prepares for another election, your remaining years in service present an opportunity to strengthen your legacy. No office lasts forever, but a reputation for integrity endures. Let your final years in uniform be remembered for fairness, courage, and fidelity to the Constitution, so that your name is associated with justice and professionalism rather than questions about bias.
Signed:
Comrade James Onifade
Advocate for Good Governance and Judicial Reform
