Joy Anyim
The police authority, in Ogun State, say intelligence at their disposal, has revealed an attempt by those they called ‘unscrupulous elements’ to disrupt the inauguration of a new administration in the state, come May 29.
Making this revelation, in a press statement, was the State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Abimbola Oyeyemi, a Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP).
Oyeyemi disclosed that rallies, processions and assemblies in public places were being orchestrated by these ‘enemies of peace’, who claim to be settling land and chieftaincy dispute.
He said the mastermind of the act have chosen to foment trouble rather than approach the court to seek justice, have the aim of heating up the state before inauguration.
According to the PPRO, “In view of this, the command has put in place a robust security arrangement aimed at checkmating such trouble makers and other criminally-minded persons, including miscreants and disgruntled elements.
“The special units of the Command namely SARS, PMF, STS, Anti kidnapping as well as DPOS and Area Commanders have been placed on red alert with specific instruction to closely monitor these misguided elements and respond swiftly to any distress calls and disturbance of public peace.
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“The Commissioner of Police, CP Bashir Makama, has also ordered twenty-four hourly surveillance patrols across the length and breadth of the state.”
To this end, the Ogun State Command have advised members of the public to put on hold any form of public procession, rally or carnival related to chieftaincy and land matters.
“They should seek alternative dispute resolution methods, or approach the law court for redress,” he stated.
However, Oyeyemi said gatherings for other purposes must be communicated to the police,
“In furtherance to this, persons or group intending to hold public assemblies and rallies other than as stated above are advised to contact the office of the Commissioner of Police, Ogun State, for necessary approval and security.”
The Command also warned saying, “We will not hesitate to deal decisively with anybody or group who attempts to disrupt the peace of the State no matter how highly placed such person(s) may be, as the law is no respecter of anybody.
“The Police in Ogun State is committed to the defense of the rule of law, safety and security for all law-abiding citizens in Ogun State.”
