Osun police launch manhunt as poll apps crisis escalates, six killed in violent clashes

DDM News

The Osun State Police Command has launched a manhunt for those responsible for the violence that erupted across the state

The crisis, which broke out on Monday, is linked to political tensions surrounding the forthcoming poll apps for the local government election.

Reports from Diaspora digital media (DDM) indicate that six people lost their lives, while several others sustained injuries in the unrest.

The police have vowed to restore peace and arrest those involved in the deadly confrontation.

Meanwhile, the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSSIEC) has dismissed claims that military personnel sealed its office.

The commission insisted that the scheduled poll apps for Saturday would proceed as planned.

Tensions flared when sacked local government chairmen and councillors attempted to reclaim their offices.

Members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) moved to enforce a Court of Appeal ruling overturning their removal from office.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) supporters, in large numbers, mobilized to resist their return to power.

The confrontation quickly escalated into violence, resulting in multiple deaths and widespread destruction of property.

Among the casualties was an APC chieftain, Remi Abass, who was reportedly killed at the entrance of the Irewole Local Government secretariat.

His death, along with five others, was confirmed by the police following the outbreak of violence.

Abass was laid to rest on Tuesday in accordance with Islamic rites, with several APC leaders in attendance.

The political unrest has heightened concerns over security ahead of the scheduled poll apps in the state.

Osun State Police Command’s spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, addressed the situation in a statement on Tuesday.

She extended condolences to families who lost loved ones and assured the public of a thorough investigation.

“The incident led to the loss of six lives and left many others hospitalized,” Opalola stated.

She emphasized that the police would ensure all those responsible for the violence faced justice.

The Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Abba, has pledged that law enforcement agencies will leave no stone unturned in bringing the culprits to book.

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of lives and destruction of property,” Opalola said.

She reassured the public that the police were actively engaging with all relevant parties to prevent further conflict.

Security agencies have urged residents to remain calm and allow law enforcement to carry out their duties.

Authorities have also warned against any attempt to disrupt the upcoming poll apps through violence.

The police cautioned individuals involved in inciting conflict to desist, stressing that Osun State is known for peace.

To prevent further escalation, additional mobile policemen have been deployed to Osun from outside the state.

The Inspector General of Police ordered reinforcements to strengthen security in the volatile areas.

“We will not tolerate any actions that disrupt public peace or threaten lives,” Opalola declared.

She assured that security personnel would remain on high alert before, during, and after the poll apps.

Despite the unrest, OSSIEC reaffirmed its commitment to conducting the scheduled poll apps as planned.

The commission had earlier announced February 22, 2025, as the date for the local government election.

In response to circulating rumors, OSSIEC denied that its premises had been sealed off by military forces.

Sadiat Isiaka, the commission’s Information Officer, issued a statement refuting claims of military interference.

She assured voters that adequate security arrangements had been put in place for the smooth conduct of the poll apps.

“Contrary to fake reports, our premises are secure, with inter-agency security personnel ensuring safety,” Isiaka stated.

She confirmed the presence of security operatives, including police, DSS, NSCDC, NDLEA, Amotekun Corps, and vigilante groups.

OSSIEC expressed appreciation to the security agencies for safeguarding election materials and personnel.

The commission urged the public to disregard false reports and remain committed to participating in the poll apps.

Meanwhile, the APC leadership in Osun has expressed grief over the loss of its chieftain, Remi Abass.

The party’s state chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, described the killing as “inhuman, wicked, and callous.”

He called on law enforcement to swiftly arrest those responsible and ensure justice is served.

As a mark of respect, APC directed its members to stay away from council offices until further notice.

The party commended its chairmen and councillors for abiding by the Court of Appeal ruling reinstating them.

Despite the legal backing, the violent resistance from opposition members has stalled their return to office.

Following the clashes, many local government secretariats remained locked on Tuesday.

There was no visible security presence at the Olorunda Local Government secretariat in Igbona.

Similarly, the Osogbo Local Government secretariat at Oke Baale remained shut, with no sign of activity.

The political crisis has prompted concerns over the impact on governance at the grassroots level.

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the matter.

In a statement on Tuesday, NANS expressed fears that the situation could spiral out of control.

The students’ body warned that the crisis bore similarities to past violent political conflicts in the region.

Abdul-Yekinn Odunayo, Clerk of the NANS Senate, issued the statement from Abeokuta, Ogun State.

He cited historical unrest, such as the Operation-Wet-E crisis of the 1960s, as a cautionary example.

Odunayo also referenced the Ife-Modakeke communal clashes, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention.

He stressed that the loss of six lives in the political conflict was deeply concerning.

NANS called on security agencies to act decisively in arresting those responsible for the violence.

“The crisis in Osun is escalating, and we urge President Tinubu to intervene before it worsens,” Odunayo stated.

He warned that allowing the situation to persist could have long-term consequences for the state.

The student body emphasized the importance of peaceful political processes ahead of the poll apps.

NANS urged all political actors to prioritize dialogue and prevent further loss of lives.

Security agencies have assured residents that normalcy will be restored before the election date.

Authorities have intensified surveillance and intelligence gathering to prevent further escalation.

The police reiterated their commitment to maintaining order and ensuring the poll apps proceed without disruption.

With heightened security measures in place, the state government remains confident in a peaceful electoral process.

Residents have been advised to report any suspicious activities to security agencies for swift action.

As tensions remain high, stakeholders continue to call for peace and adherence to democratic principles.

The success of the poll apps will depend on the collective efforts of security forces, political leaders, and the public.

Law enforcement agencies remain on standby to counter any attempt to incite further violence.

The coming days will be crucial in determining the stability of Osun State’s political landscape.

For now, all eyes are on the authorities to ensure that law and order prevail ahead of the poll apps.

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