The Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, has called on political parties, candidates, and their supporters to conduct their campaigns peacefully and in strict compliance with the law ahead of the forthcoming Osun State governorship election.
Speaking during an interactive session with critical stakeholders held on Wednesday at the State Police Headquarters in Osogbo, CP Gotan emphasized the need for collective responsibility in ensuring a free, fair, credible, and violence-free electoral process.
Addressing political party leaders, candidates, civil society organisations, media representatives, and other stakeholders, the Police Commissioner stressed the importance of notifying security agencies ahead of rallies, campaigns, processions, and other political gatherings.
According to him, early notification would enable the Police and other security agencies to deploy personnel effectively, provide adequate security coverage, manage traffic, prevent clashes, and ensure the safety of participants and the general public.
CP Gotan also warned against the destruction, defacement, or removal of opponents' campaign materials, describing such acts as unlawful and capable of escalating political tension.
He urged political actors to focus on issues, policies, and programmes rather than engaging in actions that could provoke hostility among supporters.
The Commissioner further advised political parties to avoid late-night rallies and campaign activities, noting that such events often pose security challenges and increase the likelihood of criminal activities.
He emphasized that all campaign activities must conform strictly with the provisions of the Electoral Act and other relevant laws, maintaining that no individual or political group is above the law.
Condemning thuggery, gangsterism, and the recruitment or sponsorship of political thugs, CP Gotan said violence and intimidation have no place in a democratic society. He urged political leaders to caution their supporters against acts capable of disrupting public peace and to refrain from supporting individuals involved in criminal activities.
The Police Commissioner also cautioned against hate speech, inflammatory comments, and inciting statements, warning that such utterances could trigger violence and deepen political, ethnic, or religious divisions.
He called on all stakeholders to maintain respectful, issue-based, and constructive political discourse throughout the electioneering period.
Reiterating the commitment of security agencies to maintaining law and order, CP Gotan urged all political parties and candidates to embrace peaceful coexistence before, during, and after the election.
"As we move closer to election day, let us remember that peace is a collective responsibility. The people of Osun State deserve a free, fair, credible, and peaceful election," he stated.
The interactive session formed part of ongoing efforts by the Osun State Police Command to engage stakeholders and strengthen collaboration towards ensuring a peaceful governorship election in the state.
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