By Shina Abubakar, Osogbo

A coalition of civil society organisations in Osun State under the aegis of the Network of Civil Society Groups has given the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, a 72-hour ultimatum to review the leadership of the Osun State Police Command.

Addressing journalists on behalf of the coalition, the Convener of the Citizenship and Citizen Awareness Centre, Comrade Demola Yaya, said the call was informed by concerns over public confidence in the command’s ability to effectively address security challenges in the state.

Yaya cited recent incidents of violence, attacks on political actors, vandalism of political offices and the killing of a 14-year-old boy in Ilobu as reasons for what he described as the need for urgent intervention.

He also called for a comprehensive review of the Osun State Police Command, saying such a move would help strengthen public trust in law enforcement and improve security management in the state.

According to him, the coalition’s objective is to promote professionalism, neutrality and effectiveness within the police force.

“Our objective is not to weaken the police institution. On the contrary, we seek to strengthen it by ensuring that officers of proven integrity, professionalism and neutrality are entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining law and order in Osun State, particularly as the state approaches another critical electoral cycle,” he said.

The coalition also urged political actors and their supporters not to politicise security concerns in the state, stressing that issues relating to violence and public safety should be addressed objectively.

“We also caution political actors, their supporters and sponsored groups against trivialising the genuine security concerns of Osun citizens. Attempting to dismiss or politicise legitimate concerns about killings, violence and insecurity only worsens the situation and undermines efforts toward lasting peace,” Yaya stated.

The group further called on the Governor of Osun State to continue working with relevant authorities to ensure the protection of lives and property.

“Together, we must ensure that no individual, group or political interest is placed above the law. Together, we can build an Osun State where justice prevails, democratic values flourish and security agencies operate with professionalism, fairness and integrity,” he added.

Meanwhile, another civil society organisation had earlier passed a vote of confidence on the leadership of the Osun State Police Command, describing its performance as professional and unbiased.

The group urged stakeholders across the state to cooperate with security agencies in efforts to address insecurity and maintain peace.