The Osun State Government has publicly challenged the handling of a suspected banditry case, warning the police against bowing to political influence amid allegations that attempts are being made to secure the suspect’s release.
The controversy follows claims by a civil society group that some prominent members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have allegedly been lobbying for the release of a suspect arrested in the Lameco area of Osogbo.
According to the group, political figures and their representatives reportedly approached security authorities in an effort to obtain bail for the suspect, a move they described as capable of frustrating efforts to tackle criminal activities in the state.
The police had earlier stated that the suspect was undergoing psychiatric evaluation, adding that an herbalist allegedly confirmed treating him for mental illness for about 10 years.
However, the explanation has sparked fresh questions from the state government, which is demanding greater transparency regarding the investigation.
In a statement issued by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, the government asked the police to provide evidence supporting the claim that the suspect has a history of mental illness.
“Where is the medical report on the reported psychiatric condition of the suspect? Who is the herbalist and where is his statement of treating the suspect for the last 10 years?” the government queried.
The state also demanded clarification on reports that APC chieftains allegedly visited police stations or sent emissaries to seek the suspect’s release.
“Is it true that APC chieftains have visited and sent emissaries to the police to secure the release of the suspect?” the statement asked.
Beyond the questions surrounding the suspect, the government also criticised what it described as the delayed response from the police on the matter.
“Why was the police silent on the Lameco suspect until the civil society group raised eyebrows on the subject?” the statement added.
Warning against any action that could weaken public confidence in security agencies, the government urged the police command to handle the matter professionally and avoid allowing politics to interfere with law enforcement.
“The state police command should be wary of actions and activities that may embolden criminals in this delicate period,” the government stated.
Osun further called on the Inspector-General of Police and other security agencies to monitor developments closely and ensure the investigation remains transparent and credible.
The government also urged the Osun State Commissioner of Police to prevent what it described as the politicisation of a sensitive security issue.
“The Commissioner of Police should stop the ongoing politicisation of a delicate state security matter,” the statement concluded.
Source: Osun State Government
