Osun Govt Criticizes Police Over Unlawful Arrests

The Osun State Government has criticized the Police Command in the state over what it calls unprofessional handling of recent arrests.

This was revealed in a statement signed by Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Oluomo Kolapo Alimi.

Naija News reports that the government expressed concern about a statement the Police initially issued, then deleted, and later replaced with a revised version, calling the actions inconsistent and confusing.

The dispute centres on the arrest of Mr. Apesin Abiodun Adegoke and Mr. Iyiola Monsuru.

The Police claimed that a petition leading to the arrests came from Mr. Bola Oyebamiji, but the government said it is false.

According to records, the petition was submitted by Mr. Arimiyau Owoade, APC Chairman of Irewole Local Government, regarding statements that allegedly affected the APC candidate in the area.

The Police also described the arrests as “invitations,” but the government says both men were taken into custody without being invited.

Mr. Adegoke was arrested on January 7 at his mechanic workshop, which the Police later called his “hideout.”

Allegations that he confessed to the offence or asked for leniency were denied by the government, which challenged the Police to provide proof.

Mr. Adegoke remained in detention until the late hours of January 12, even though the Police previously claimed he was arraigned on January 9.

The government said this is false and pointed out that counsel for Mr. Adegoke applied for administrative bail on January 8, but the Police did not respond.

A reminder had to be sent before bail was eventually granted.

The government referred to the Administration of Criminal Justice Act and the Police Act, stating that suspects in non-capital cases should not be held beyond 24 hours without arraignment and should be released on administrative bail if arraignment is not possible.

The government described the six-day detention as a misuse of power and called on the Police to remain professional and avoid political influence.