Forum of All Progressives Congress (APC) former lawmakers of the Osun State legislature, on Thursday told the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Tunji Disu, to resist the alleged push by Governor Ademola Adeleke for the redeployment of the state Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan.

Addressing a press conference in Osogbo, the state capital, the spokesperson for the forum, who is also the immediate past Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Honourable Timothy Owoeye, alleged that Adeleke was exploring backdoor manoeuvres to ensure the transfer of Gotan before the August 15 governorship poll.

 

Owoeye also tasked the security agencies to investigate alleged movement of suspected thugs into the state by the ruling Accord as part of the moves to unleash mayhem on the members and supporters of APC.

 

According to him, “we are deeply concerned by reports suggesting that Governor Ademola Adeleke and some individuals within the state government are dissatisfied with the activities of the Commissioner of Police because of his determination to enforce the law without fear or favour.

 

“Since his deployment to Osun State, CP Ibrahim Gotan has demonstrated professionalism, neutrality, courage and commitment to the protection of lives. 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 therefore call on the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Tunji Bisu to resist any pressure aimed at influencing operational decisions within the Nigeria Police Force for partisan considerations.

 

“The intention of the state government is to remove professional security agents so they can have a free day to unleash their political bandits and janjaweed on our members.We further wish to alert security agencies to intelligence available to our Forum indicating a coordinated plot to unleash violence against members and supporters of the APC across Osun State, “Owoeye stated.

 

While contending that professional policing must never become a casualty of partisan politics, the former Speaker opined that politicians should face politics while the police should be allowed to face the business of ensuring security and safety of the citizenry.

 

Owoeye, who also accused the state governor of harbouring criminal elements, who had been declared wanted for murder by the Police in the Government House, underscored the need for peace and tranquility ahead of forthcoming gubernatorial election polls.