The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, is being called upon to restore order in Osun State following a troubling incident involving the Chairman of the Osun State Park Management Committee, Nurudeen Iyanda Waliki, commonly known as Alowonle. This situation has raised significant concerns among the local populace
On Tuesday, Mukaila Popoola, the Secretary of the OSPMC, claimed that Alowonle was shot while in police custody. He alleged that this occurred after Alowonle was arrested due to a complaint lodged against him. This assertion has sparked outrage and demands for accountability.
In contrast, the Acting Police Public Relations Officer for the Osun Command, Emmanuel Giwa-Alade, provided a different narrative. He stated that Alowonle was shot while trying to escape arrest after being apprehended with firearms. This conflicting information has left many residents confused and concerned about the events that transpired.
The incident has led to significant unrest in the state, with residents and commuters facing disruptions. On Wednesday, transport services were halted as drivers protested against the shooting of Alowonle, highlighting the growing tension in the region.
Fasasi Sodiq, the President of National Youths Inclusive Initiatives, along with Suleiman Salahudeen, President of the Societal Safety Network (SSN), addressed the media in Abuja. They emphasized the importance of restoring peace in Osun State to prevent further escalation of violence and unrest.
Both leaders expressed their concerns regarding the safety of residents and the potential for the situation to worsen if not addressed promptly. They underscored the need for immediate action from the police to manage the rising tensions and restore calm.
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In their appeal, they urged the Inspector-General of Police to utilize his authority effectively to combat crime in the state. They stressed that proactive measures are essential to prevent the situation from deteriorating into a more significant crisis.
Furthermore, they requested that the police clear their name from the serious allegations made by Alowonle, who claimed that officers had supplied him with the firearms found in his possession. This allegation has put the integrity of the police force under scrutiny.
The leaders’ call for action reflects the broader sentiment of the community, which is anxious about the implications of this incident on security and public order. They hope for a swift response from law enforcement to restore trust and safety.
In conclusion, the situation in Osun State remains tense, and the need for decisive action from the IGP is critical. Addressing these issues promptly will be vital to ensuring peace and preventing further unrest in the region.