By Shina Abubakar, Osogbo

A coalition of civil society and student organisations on Monday staged a peaceful protest in Osogbo, the Osun State capital, against rising political violence and killings in the state.

The coalition, operating under the umbrella of the Osun Youth and Students’ Coalition Network (OYSCN) and comprising groups including the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), National Association of Colleges of Education Students (NACES) and the Osun Youth Network, marched through major roads in the state capital, calling for an end to political violence and urging stakeholders to support security agencies in maintaining peace and order.

The protesters moved from Nelson Mandela Freedom Park through MDS Road, Olaiya Junction and Oke-Baale Roundabout, displaying placards and demanding stronger action against insecurity, political violence and other crimes.

Addressing journalists during the protest, the coalition’s spokesperson and Executive Director of the World Institute for Peace (WIP), Lamina Omotoyosi, called on the Osun State Government to provide greater support for security agencies in tackling insecurity.

The coalition also passed a vote of confidence in the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, commending his leadership and efforts in maintaining law and order.

Omotoyosi urged the state government and security agencies to work together to address security challenges, including kidnapping, cultism and political violence.

He also condemned recent incidents of violence in parts of the state and called for thorough investigations to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.

The coalition further appealed for improved security logistics, including additional patrol vehicles, motorcycles and other operational resources to enhance crime prevention and response efforts across the state.

“We hereby pass a vote of confidence in Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan for his leadership and commitment to maintaining law and order in Osun State,” Omotoyosi said.

He called for an immediate end to political violence in Osun State and across Nigeria, stressing the need for peaceful conduct by all political actors ahead of future elections.

The coalition also urged the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to continue supporting efforts aimed at strengthening security and ensuring the protection of lives and property.

The protesters further called on the police command to deepen community policing initiatives through regular engagement with traditional rulers, community leaders and other stakeholders to promote peace and security across the state.