An Abuja-based legal practitioner, Mr Pelumi Olajengbesi, has submitted a petition to the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Tunji Disu, calling for urgent intervention over reported killings and rising political violence in Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
The petition was delivered on Thursday at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, where the lawyer raised concerns about escalating insecurity and its potential impact on the credibility of the upcoming election.
Olajengbesi urged the Nigeria Police Force to deploy tactical units to identified flashpoints in Osun State to restore calm and protect residents.
He alleged that recurring incidents of violence had led to deaths, injuries, destruction of property, and growing fear across several communities.
According to him, the situation poses a serious threat to democratic stability and electoral integrity.
The lawyer called for a comprehensive investigation into all reported cases of political violence in the state.
He also demanded the arrest and prosecution of individuals involved, regardless of political affiliation, alongside increased security deployment during the election period.
Olajengbesi further requested a review of Osun’s security architecture to ensure impartial law enforcement and improved protection of voters.
He described the violence as politically motivated and referenced multiple incidents, including the killing of a 14-year-old boy, Ezekiel Olapade, in Ilobu, Irepodun Local Government Area.
He said the petition includes annexed documents such as witness statements, photographs, videos, and media reports detailing alleged incidents across different communities.
Olajengbesi warned that failure to act decisively could worsen public distrust in law enforcement and encourage impunity.
He stressed that the Nigeria Police Force has a constitutional responsibility to protect lives and maintain order during elections.
“Elections should be decided by the ballot, not by violence or intimidation,” he said.
The lawyer, who described himself as a concerned citizen and spokesperson of the Imole Campaign Council (TICC), urged the police leadership to treat the petition with urgency.
He said swift intervention is necessary to safeguard lives, ensure peaceful elections, and uphold confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
