Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has formally requested the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to intervene regarding the conduct of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan. Governor Adeleke specifically alleges that the Commissioner of Police has been involved in recent arbitrary arrests and detentions within the state, prompting this urgent appeal for external oversight. The governor is particularly concerned about the continued detention of his aide, Abiodun Adegoke Apesin, whom he claims is being unlawfully held following a defamation petition. This petition is reportedly linked to the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Bola Oyebamiji. Governor Adeleke asserts that this detention is a clear violation of Apesin’s fundamental human rights, especially since the alleged offence is non-capital and bailable under Nigerian law.
In a detailed statement issued by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, Governor Adeleke highlighted that bail has allegedly been denied on two separate occasions. This refusal occurred despite the detainee, Apesin, complying with all police conditions, including presenting senior civil servants as sureties. The governor characterized this situation as an “unacceptable partisan conduct by the state police command.” He questioned the rationale behind the refusal to grant bail or to arraign the detainee before a competent court of law.
Featured snippet paragraph: The Osun State Governor has urged the IGP to intervene over the conduct of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, alleging unlawful detention of his aide and denial of bail. The governor insists this violates fundamental human rights and calls for immediate release and a halt to partisan police actions.
Governor Adeleke expressed deep concern over what he perceives as a decline in professionalism within the Osun Police Command since the current Commissioner of Police assumed office. He noted that the police now appear to detain individuals for extended periods without granting bail or formally charging them with any offense. This practice, he believes, deviates from standard legal procedures and undermines public trust in law enforcement.
The governor also recalled a previous incident involving the arrest of another aide, Iyiola Monsuru, emphasizing that both aides were reportedly arrested without any formal police invitations being extended to them beforehand. This pattern of arrests, according to Adeleke, suggests a lack of adherence to due process and an overreach of police authority.
Governor Adeleke issued a stern warning, stating that “the police should not be perceived as serving the interests of any political party.” He stressed that impartiality and non-partisanship are absolutely essential for maintaining peace and security within the state. The governor’s appeal to the IGP is to direct the Osun State Police Commissioner to ensure the immediate release of Mr. Apesin and to cease any further harassment of media aides who are operating within the bounds of the law.
Responding to the allegations, the Police Public Relations Officer for the Osun State Police Command, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, stated that Abiodun Adegoke has indeed been admitted to bail. Ojelabi sought to absolve the Commissioner of Police of blame in the handling of the matter. He indicated that the command has concluded its investigation into the allegations against Adegoke and intends to file charges against him before the Federal High Court in Osogbo.
DSP Ojelabi further clarified the process, stating, “The police will file charges before the Federal High Court, Osogbo, and the court will pronounce a date for arraignment.” He also added, “He will be admitted to bail today once his sureties come to the station.” This statement suggests a resolution is underway, though the governor’s concerns about the initial handling and alleged partisanship remain.
This situation highlights the delicate balance between law enforcement’s duty to investigate allegations and the protection of citizens’ fundamental rights, particularly in politically charged environments. The governor’s direct appeal to the IGP signifies a high-level concern about the integrity and impartiality of police actions in Osun State.
The role of the Commissioner of Police is crucial in upholding public order and ensuring that all citizens are treated fairly under the law. Governor Adeleke’s intervention underscores the importance of accountability within the police force and the need for an independent and unbiased approach to law enforcement.
Understanding the legal framework surrounding arrests, detentions, and bail in Nigeria is key to evaluating such situations. The Nigerian Constitution and various statutes provide clear guidelines on these matters, emphasizing the presumption of innocence until proven guilty and the right to liberty.
The governor’s spokesperson has been vocal in articulating the administration’s stance, aiming to inform the public and press for swift resolution. The allegations of partisan conduct are serious and could have implications for the relationship between the state government and the police command.
Looking ahead, the outcome of the legal proceedings and any disciplinary actions taken by the IGP will be closely watched. The commitment to justice and the rule of law will be tested in this instance, with significant implications for the political landscape of Osun State.
The governor’s call for intervention is a significant step, signaling a potential shift in how such disputes are managed. The IGP’s response will set a precedent for future interactions between state governors and police commissioners.
This developing story underscores the critical need for transparency and adherence to legal procedures in all police operations. The commitment to fairness and impartiality must remain paramount to ensure public confidence and maintain stability.
