Osun guber: Police broker peace between Accord, APC over rally venues

The Osun State Police Command has brokered an agreement between the Accord and the All Progressives Congress, APC, over the dates and venues of their final campaign rallies ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

The agreement was reached at a strategic meeting convened by the Commissioner of Police (Elections), CP Samuel Erale Etaifo, on Friday to address concerns arising from clashes in the proposed schedules of the two political parties.

The meeting brought together leaders and representatives of Accord and the APC as part of efforts to prevent possible confrontations between supporters during the final phase of electioneering.

According to a statement issued by the Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the meeting was held in an atmosphere of mutual understanding and cooperation.

The statement said, “Following deliberations, the parties agreed that Accord would hold its final campaign rally on Wednesday, August 12, at Fakunle, Osogbo.

“The APC, meanwhile, agreed to hold its final campaign rally on Thursday, August 13, at Freedom Park, Osogbo.”

The police said “the resolution was reached amicably, with both parties agreeing to separate their final campaign activities to avoid circumstances that could lead to a breakdown of law and order.”

CP Etaifo commended the leadership of both political parties for the maturity, patriotism and commitment to peaceful democratic engagement.

He urged political actors to caution their supporters, loyalists and foot soldiers against actions capable of disrupting the peace in the state before, during and after the campaigns.

The police commissioner reiterated the neutrality of the Nigeria Police Force, saying “the command remained committed to providing adequate security for all lawful political activities.”

He warned that “anyone involved in violence, intimidation, thuggery, incitement or other activities capable of causing a breach of peace would be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with Nigerian law.”

The command also urged residents and other stakeholders to remain law-abiding and promptly report suspicious activities to the nearest police formation.