The Osun State Commissioner of Police in charge of the governorship election, Samuel Etaifo, has warned politicians against violence and inflammatory comments as the state prepares for Saturday’s election.
The warning followed the invitation of the Senator representing Osun East Senatorial District, Francis Fadahunsi, over alleged inciting comments directed at members of the Accord Party in Ilesa on Tuesday.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the police commissioner condemned the alleged remarks and urged political leaders to exercise restraint during the critical period.
Etaifo said political leaders and public office holders were expected to promote peace and avoid statements capable of heightening tension or undermining public confidence in the electoral and security arrangements for the election.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to neutrality, professionalism and the protection of democratic values, warning that the command would not tolerate any act, statement or conduct capable of inciting violence, disrupting public order or threatening the security of the state.
The commissioner subsequently invited Fadahunsi to provide clarification on the alleged statement and help promote mutual understanding in the interest of peace and security.
According to the police, the invitation should not be interpreted as an attempt at intimidation but as part of proactive measures to prevent an escalation of tensions and ensure a peaceful, free, fair and credible governorship election.
Etaifo also urged political parties, their supporters and members of the public to remain law-abiding, refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and channel grievances through lawful means.
