Security operatives meet political parties, CSOs, media over violence in Osun

From Lateef Dada, Osogbo

Security operatives in Sun State, yesterday, held a stakeholders’ meeting with political parties, civil societies, student bodies and the media, following the rising cases of violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.

The meeting was held at the police headquarters, Osogbo. Political parties in attendance lamented that the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Accord Party (AP) that were allegedly formenting troubles did not attend the meeting.

Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, urged political parties and candidates to ensure that the police and other relevant security agencies were adequately notified before any rally, campaign, procession or political gathering.

“Early notification will enable the security agencies to deploy personnel effectively, provide adequate security coverage, manage traffic, prevent clashes and ensure the safety of participants, as well as members of the public. Security agencies can only plan effectively when they are informed in good time.

“The destruction, defacement or removal of opponents’ billboards, banners, posters and other campaign materials must stop. Such acts are not only unlawful but are capable of provoking retaliation, creating tension and escalating political hostility. Political competition should be based on ideas, policies and programmes, not on the destruction of property belonging to the opponents,” Gotan said.

He urged stakeholders to avoid late-night rallies and campaign activities, discourage all forms of thuggery, gangsterism and the recruitment or sponsorship of political thugs and avoid hate speech, inflammatory comments and inciting statements.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, lamented that the recent incidents of violence, which unfortunately resulted in the loss of lives, had created an atmosphere of apprehension among citizens and stakeholders.

She appealed to all political parties, candidates, supporters and other stakeholders to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship, issue-based campaigns and respect for the rule of law.

“We must collectively reject hate speech, incitement, misinformation and any action capable of threatening the peace and security of our communities,” she added.