The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed that at least 30 cases of alleged politically motivated killings are currently under investigation ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, raising fresh concerns over security and the conduct of political actors as the state prepares for the polls.
The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, disclosed that several arrests have already been made in connection with the incidents. He said some of the suspects have been publicly presented by the police, while others have been formally charged before the courts as investigations continue.
According to him, preliminary findings suggest that some of the reported killings may have political undertones, although investigators are still working to establish the full circumstances surrounding each case. He noted that while there are indications pointing to the possible involvement of political interests, the police are committed to ensuring that every allegation is thoroughly investigated before any final conclusions are reached.
The police spokesperson explained that details relating to the identities of suspects, their alleged accomplices and the specific cases being investigated cannot be disclosed at this stage. He said doing so could interfere with ongoing investigations and judicial proceedings, stressing that the Force would allow the legal process to run its full course before making further information public.
He assured Nigerians that the police remain committed to transparency and professionalism, emphasizing that no individual found culpable would be shielded from prosecution, regardless of political affiliation, social status or influence.
Addressing allegations of police complicity and bias in the political atmosphere in Osun State, Iniedu firmly rejected claims that the Force was protecting any individual or group. He stated that the Nigeria Police Force has no interest in taking sides in political contests and remains focused solely on maintaining law and order throughout the election period.
He acknowledged that election seasons often generate accusations and counter-accusations among political parties and their supporters, with security agencies frequently becoming the subject of criticism. However, he insisted that the Force would continue to carry out its constitutional responsibilities impartially and professionally.
According to him, the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has issued a clear directive to all officers and commanders involved in election security operations to identify, arrest and prosecute anyone found engaging in criminal activities or acts capable of disrupting public peace before, during and after the election.
The police also revealed that the Inspector-General recently visited Osogbo, the Osun State capital, where he met with political stakeholders, government officials and security personnel as part of efforts to prevent violence and ensure a peaceful electoral process.
During the engagements, all political actors were reminded of their responsibility to conduct campaigns peacefully and discourage supporters from engaging in acts of violence, intimidation or destruction of property. The Inspector-General also appealed to parents and community leaders to caution young people against allowing themselves to be recruited by politicians as political thugs or used to perpetrate violence.
The police leadership reiterated that maintaining peace and protecting lives and property remain top priorities throughout the election period. It warned that anyone found sponsoring, encouraging or participating in political violence would face the full weight of the law.
To strengthen security across Osun State, the Nigeria Police Force has deployed additional operational assets, including specialised tactical units, surveillance drones and helicopters to support intelligence gathering and rapid response operations. The Force said it is also working closely with other security agencies to enhance coordination and ensure adequate coverage across all parts of the state before and during the governorship election.
The police expressed confidence that the enhanced security measures, combined with improved intelligence gathering and sustained engagement with stakeholders, would help create a peaceful environment for residents to exercise their democratic rights without fear or intimidation.
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