The Osun State chapter of Accord has rejected an invitation to a meeting with the state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, citing a lack of action by law enforcement on alleged attacks and killings of its members. The party insists it will not engage with the police until those responsible for violence against its members are arrested and prosecuted. The decision was announced in a statement issued on Monday by the party’s state chairman, Pastor Victor Akande, who accused the Osun State Police Command of negligence and failure to investigate multiple violent incidents targeting Accord members and sympathisers.
Akande revealed that the police invitation, received late on Sunday, did not specify the purpose of the meeting scheduled for Monday. He described the proposed gathering as a “photo opportunity on the pains and injuries of Accord members,” emphasizing that the timing was inappropriate given the ongoing security challenges faced by the party. According to Akande, the police have consistently failed to act on credible reports of violence, including the killing of a youth leader in Ikire, where no arrests have been made to date.
The Accord chairman also highlighted the destruction of the party’s billboards by suspected All Progressives Congress (APC) supporters, noting that no arrests were made despite the attacks occurring in broad daylight. He recounted multiple incidents in Osogbo and Ede where members and sympathisers were injured during violent confrontations. Akande stated that APC-affiliated armed thugs have been terrorizing residents across various towns in Osun State, with the police allegedly aware of their identities and locations but failing to take action.
One of the most disturbing incidents cited was the killing of a 14-year-old boy, Ezekiel Olapade, on Sunday, which occurred in the presence of police officers. Akande emphasized that as of the time the statement was released, no arrests had been made in connection with the boy’s death. He stressed that the police’s inaction undermines public trust and violates the principles of fair and impartial policing.
Akande called on Commissioner Gotan to act professionally and enforce justice without bias. He reiterated that Accord will not participate in any dialogue with the police until concrete steps are taken to hold perpetrators accountable. The party’s stance reflects growing frustration among political actors and citizens over perceived police inaction in the face of political violence.
This development underscores the deepening security concerns in Osun State and raises questions about the effectiveness of law enforcement during election periods. As tensions remain high, the public will be watching closely to see whether the police take decisive action to restore order and protect all citizens, regardless of political affiliation.
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