A coalition of civil society organisations and student groups on Monday staged a peaceful protest in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, against rising political violence and killings in the state, while expressing confidence in the leadership of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan.
The protesters, operating under the umbrella of the Osun Youth and Students’ Coalition Network (OYSCN), included members of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), National Association of Colleges of Education Students (NACES), Osun Youth Network, and several other civic groups.
The demonstration comes amid heightened political activities ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election in Osun State.
Thousands of participants marched through major areas of Osogbo, including Nelson Mandela Freedom Park, MDS Road, Olaiya Junction, and Oke-Baale Roundabout, calling for an end to political violence and urging all stakeholders to support efforts aimed at sustaining peace and security across the state.
The coalition condemned what it described as attempts to politicise security issues and appealed to the Osun State Government to strengthen collaboration with security agencies rather than engage in actions capable of weakening security operations.
The protesters also referenced the recent killing of Ezekiel Olapade in Ilobu, Irepodun Local Government Area, and other reported incidents of violence, urging security agencies to intensify efforts toward identifying and prosecuting those responsible.
Addressing journalists during the protest, spokesperson of the coalition and Executive Director of the World Institute for Peace (WIP), Mr Lamina Omotoyosi, called for greater support and improved logistics for security agencies in tackling kidnapping, cult-related activities, and political thuggery.
He urged the state government to facilitate the deployment of Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) acquired by the previous administration and provide additional operational support, including patrol vehicles and motorcycles, to improve security response across the state.
Omotoyosi commended Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan for what he described as professionalism and commitment to maintaining law and order despite political tensions.
“We hereby pass a vote of confidence in the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Gotan, for his leadership, professionalism, and dedication to security in Osun State,” he stated.
The coalition also called for an immediate end to political violence in Osun and across Nigeria and demanded the arrest and prosecution of all individuals with pending criminal allegations linked to political activities before the governorship election.
Omotoyosi further alleged that some attempts by the police to investigate unresolved criminal cases had generated criticism and political backlash.
He referenced unresolved incidents, including the killing of Hon. Remi Abbas in Irewole, and called for thorough and impartial investigations into all outstanding criminal allegations regardless of political affiliation.
The group also alleged that a recently circulated video raised questions about security concerns around government facilities and called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure proper investigation into any alleged criminal activities.
According to the coalition, recent security operations targeting suspected political thugs and cult groups have contributed to relative calm in parts of the state.
The protesters warned against actions that could undermine the constitutional responsibilities of security institutions, noting that effective policing remains essential to preserving public order.
They further urged the Inspector-General of Police to ensure comprehensive investigations into recent incidents of political violence and prosecute anyone found culpable in accordance with the law.
The coalition concluded by encouraging the Commissioner of Police to deepen community policing initiatives through regular engagement with traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders across Osun State.