Authorities verify 30 suspected politically driven murders in Osun

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed a total of 30 cases of alleged politically motivated killings in the run-up to the August 15 governorship election in Osun state, according to CSP Anietie Iniedu, the Force Public Relations Officer.

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Iniedu revealed this information during his appearance on the Channel TV programme "Morning Brief" on Tuesday, where he also stated that a few arrests had been made in connection with the killings.

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Some of the suspects have been paraded by the police, and a few have been charged in court, Iniedu said, adding that the complaints received so far suggest that some politicians may be involved in the killings.

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However, Iniedu declined to provide further details about the cases, suspects, and their accomplices, citing the need to avoid sub judice and a media trial, and assured that the details would be provided once investigations are completed and the court cases are determined.

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In response to allegations of police complicity in the state's political crisis, Iniedu stated that the police will not be part of any cover-up and will not shield anyone involved in a crime, emphasizing that the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has given a clear directive to track, arrest, and prosecute any suspected criminal.

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Iniedu recalled that the IGP recently visited Osogbo, the state capital, to address escalating political tensions and pre-election violence ahead of the governorship election, where he met with state governor Ademola Adeleke and key stakeholders to warn against thuggery and political violence.

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During the meeting, the IGP warned parents to caution their children and wards to shun violence and desist from being used as tools to settle political scores, Iniedu said, adding that the IGP's posture is to counter any form of breakdown of law and order.

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The FPRO also addressed allegations of partisanship and shielding suspects made against the State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, stating that the IGP met with the CP on the issue and directed him on what to do, warning that he would not tolerate such accusations.

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Iniedu described the IGP's visit to the state as a huge success that is already yielding fruits, and disclosed that specialised units, drones, and helicopters have been deployed to Osun, with improved intelligence in collaboration with sister agencies.

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The spokesperson highlighted the strength of the Nigeria Police Force, stating that there are well over 400,000 active policemen across the country.