The Osun State Police Command appears more focused on protecting powerful interests than on protecting the lives and property of ordinary citizens.
Its recent briefing on a violent daylight clash involving machete-wielding youths misrepresents the facts and risks shielding the real perpetrators. Rather than state the truth plainly, the Command reduced the incident to “court-related issues” and routine cultism. That is not just misleading. It is dangerous.
Let us be clear: cultism has existed in Osun long before the current Commissioner of Police was posted here. It is a national challenge, not a new problem under this administration. Yet cultists rarely brandish machetes and attack openly in broad daylight. This was no ordinary cult clash. The timing, method, and targets point to deliberate political intimidation months before the general elections.
Osun residents are not deceived. This violence bears the hallmarks of desperate political actors who are allegedly exploiting federal connections to spread fear and chaos. The aim is clear: intimidate voters, heighten tension, and create room for electoral manipulation. By labelling this as mere cultism, the Police Command gives these elements room to operate with impunity.
Why has the Osun State Police Command adopted this narrative? Is it under pressure? Is it biased? Or has it set aside its constitutional duty to remain neutral and protect all citizens?
Whatever the reason, the Command’s handling of this matter has left many residents disappointed and angry.
Instead of tracing and prosecuting the political sponsors of violence, the Command is rewriting the story to fit a convenient script.
The Command must do better. Its primary duty is to secure lives and property without fear or favour, not to serve political interests. The people of Osun will not be intimidated. We reject any attempt to disguise political thuggery as cultism.
We see through the deception. We expect the police to change course immediately, pursue the real culprits, and stop shielding those who seek to destabilise our state for selfish political gain.
Enough of the cover-ups. Osun deserves a Police Command that is professional, impartial, and accountable. The people and the nation are watching.
Signed:
Comrade James Onifade
Advocate for Good Governance and Judicial Reform
