The Forum of APC Former Legislators in the Osun State House of Assembly has backed the State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gota, and urged politicians to embrace peaceful and issue-based campaigns ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
The forum also called on the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to resist pressure to redeploy the police commissioner, following Governor Ademola Adeleke’s call for his removal over alleged incompetence in tackling criminal activities.
Spokesperson of the group, Mr Timothy Owoeye, said professional policing should not be undermined by partisan considerations, describing Gota as a neutral and courageous officer committed to protecting lives and property
Neutrality and Courage
The former legislators, however, rejected the allegations and urged the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, to resist calls to remove Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gota, whom they described as a neutral and courageous officer.
According to the forum, professional policing should not become a casualty of partisan politics, alleging that the state government may have ulterior motives for seeking the removal of a non-partisan police officer.
“Since his deployment to Osun State, CP Ibrahim Gotan has demonstrated professionalism, neutrality, courage and commitment to the protection of lives and property. Under his leadership, the Police Command has intensified operations against criminal gangs, cult groups and other security threats across the state.
“It is difficult to understand why any government would be uncomfortable with a police commissioner who is diligently carrying out his constitutional duties and working tirelessly to make communities safer. We ask a simple question: Why should any government be unhappy that criminal activities are being confronted and reduced to the barest minimum?” Owoeye argued.
Policing and Protecting
Owoeye who was a former Speaker of the State House of Assembly stressed that while politicians should face politics without acrimony and violence, the police should be allowed to face the business of professional policing and protecting the populace.
“Security agencies must be allowed to discharge their constitutional responsibilities without intimidation, interference or pressure from any quarter. We therefore call on the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Tunji Disu to resist any pressure aimed at influencing operational decisions within the Nigeria Police Force for partisan considerations”. He warned.
He further explained that removing professional security personnel at the behest of politicians could embolden unscrupulous elements and expose opposition members to intimidation.
Proactive Steps
Owoeye also urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate reports of criminal activities and political violence and take proactive measures to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
The former Speaker further called on Governor Ademola Adeleke to publicly demonstrate his commitment to peace and democratic values by distancing his administration from any individuals or groups linked to violence, intimidation or thuggery.
