Political tensions ahead of the August 15 Osun State governorship election escalated on Friday after Governor Ademola Adeleke and Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Disu exchanged sharp remarks over allegations that suspected criminals were being sheltered inside the Government House in Osogbo.
During a security meeting attended by political stakeholders, the IGP revealed that he had been briefed by the Osun State Commissioner of Police that some wanted suspects were allegedly hiding within the Government House premises. Disu said the intelligence formed part of growing security concerns ahead of the governorship election and stressed that security agencies would act against anyone found violating the law, regardless of political affiliation.
Governor Adeleke immediately rejected the allegation, insisting his administration does not shield criminals. In a strongly worded response, he told the IGP to arrest anyone involved in criminal activity, even if the person was his own son.
“If it is my son who committed a crime, arrest him,” the governor declared, emphasizing that nobody should be above the law.
The governor also reiterated his dissatisfaction with the performance of the state’s Commissioner of Police, accusing him of failing to remain impartial in handling recent security issues. Despite the disagreement, both Adeleke and the IGP pledged to work together to ensure a peaceful, free and credible governorship election.
Following the meeting, the IGP held separate discussions with political parties, traditional rulers and security agencies, warning against political violence, thuggery and intimidation. He ordered intensified operations against criminal gangs and reaffirmed that the Nigeria Police Force would remain neutral throughout the election period.
The latest exchange underscores the heightened political atmosphere in Osun as campaigns intensify. With security now at the center of the race, authorities are under increasing pressure to maintain law and order while assuring voters that the August 15 governorship election will be conducted without fear or intimidation.
