The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has pledged its full cooperation with the newly deployed Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim D. Zungura, while urging him to remain impartial and uphold the rule of law in the discharge of his duties.
The party made the position known in a statement signed by its Director of Media and Information, Mogaji Kola Olabisi, on Monday.
The APC said it was ready to work with the new police leadership to restore peace and security across the state, particularly in communities affected by political violence.
The party urged Zungura to carry out his responsibilities with fairness, integrity and without political interference, stressing that effective policing was necessary for peaceful coexistence among residents.
“We are always available as a party to partner with you in your arduous task of ridding the state of criminals who have been brazenly perpetrating atrocities on the innocent inhabitants of the state, especially members and supporters of our party in the name of politics,” the statement said.
The APC also called for the investigation and prosecution of persons allegedly involved in attacks on its members and supporters before, during and after the recent governorship election.
“We are demanding the proper investigation and prosecution of all the hoodlums who are in various custody in the state over the killings and maiming of our members and supporters and the wilful destruction of their property before, during and after the governorship election,” the party said.
The party, however, took exception to a statement attributed to Governor Ademola Adeleke during his meeting with the new CP on Monday, in which the governor reportedly expressed concern that some police units were perceived by residents as bases for APC thugs.
The APC described the comment as an unfair attack on the party and the police, arguing that it could undermine efforts to build confidence and promote peace in the state.
“It was quite unfortunate that the state governor could go to the extent of collectively heaping a needless insult on our party and the police,” the party said.
The APC maintained that the new CP should ensure that anyone wanted for alleged criminal offences was arrested and prosecuted, regardless of political affiliation or social status.
“We want to further enjoin you to inject sanity into the security firmament in Osun State by continuing the arrest and prosecution of whoever is fugitive to justice, irrespective of his social standing or political leaning in the state without fear or favour,” the statement added.
The party assured Zungura of its cooperation as he settles into his new assignment, while urging him to prioritise professionalism, neutrality and the protection of all residents.
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