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The Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, has expressed serious concern over the wave of killings recorded in Osun State as preparations intensify for the forthcoming governorship election.

Speaking during a visit to the Osun State Police Command headquarters in Osogbo on Friday, the police chief disclosed that at least 20 persons have reportedly been killed within the last few months.

Disu cautioned political stakeholders against allowing the governorship election to degenerate into violence, emphasizing that the poll must not be treated like a battlefield.

He assured residents that the Nigeria Police Force has already begun putting adequate security measures in place to guarantee a peaceful electoral process across the state.

The Inspector General explained that he had been fully briefed by the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Ibrahim Gotan, and also met with Governor Ademola Adeleke during his official visit.

“If my records are accurate, over 20 people have been killed within a number of months. We are preparing for an election, not a war,” Disu said.

According to him, the police have received several petitions and intelligence reports involving members of different political parties operating in the state.

The IGP further disclosed that the Commissioner of Police informed him about allegations that certain individuals wanted by the police were allegedly being protected inside the Government House, describing the report as deeply troubling.

“I raised the issue during my meeting with the governor, and he responded clearly that even if his own child was involved in criminal activity, such a person should be arrested,” Disu stated, noting that senior police officers, including the Assistant Inspector-General of Police overseeing the zone, were present during the discussion.

The police boss maintained that anyone found to be responsible for acts of violence or unlawful killings would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

“Nobody can take another person’s life and expect to move around freely. That is why I came down from Abuja personally to address this issue,” he said.

Disu reaffirmed the commitment of the police to providing adequate security before, during and after the election, stressing that every political party would be allowed to campaign freely under a secure environment.

“We will ensure that all parties campaign freely and safely. But those planning violence should know that it will not be business as usual. Human life is sacred, and no one has the right to take it,” he added.

Meanwhile, a video from the meeting between the Inspector General and Governor Adeleke showed the governor reiterating his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and public order across the state.

The governor also reportedly stated that he would not interfere with the arrest of anyone found to have engaged in criminal activities.

The latest development comes amid heightened political tension in Osun State, following calls by the Imole Campaign Council, which is coordinating Governor Adeleke’s re-election campaign, for the redeployment of Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan over allegations of bias and partisanship.

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