Accord Rejects Police Invitation, Demands Arrest of Killers and Attackers of Members in Osun

The Osun State chapter of the Accord Party has declined an invitation to a meeting convened by the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, insisting that it will not engage with the police command until those responsible for the killing and attacks on its members are apprehended and prosecuted.

In a statement issued on Monday by the party's State Chairman, Pastor Victor Akande, Accord accused the Osun State Police Command of failing to address a series of violent incidents allegedly targeted at its members and supporters across the state.

According to the party, the police invited members of its state executive committee to a meeting scheduled for Monday to review developments in the state. However, the invitation, which was reportedly sent late Sunday night, did not disclose the agenda of the meeting.

Rejecting the invitation, the party described the proposed engagement as an attempt at a “photo opportunity” while victims of attacks allegedly carried out against its members continue to seek justice.

Accord alleged that its members have suffered repeated attacks, citing the killing of its youth leader in Ikire, destruction of campaign billboards, and shootings allegedly carried out by political thugs in Osogbo, Ede, and other parts of the state.

The party further claimed that seven of its supporters sustained serious injuries in separate attacks and accused the police of failing to make arrests despite being aware of the identities of the perpetrators.

Akande also referenced the recent killing of a 14-year-old Accord sympathiser, alleging that the incident occurred in the presence of security personnel.

"We find it difficult to honour invitations from the Commissioner of Police until concrete steps are taken to arrest those responsible for these attacks and killings. The police must act professionally and ensure fair policing for all political stakeholders," the statement said.

The party called on the police command to demonstrate impartiality and enforce the law without fear or favour amid rising political tensions in the state.

As of the time of filing this report, the Osun State Police Command had not officially responded to the allegations raised by the Accord Party.