By OLAJIDE IDOWU

The Commissioner of Police in Osun, Ibrahim Gotan, has dismissed allegations of bias in the handling of politically related violence in the state , describing the claims by a group of protesters as untrue.

Reacting to calls for his redeployment during a news conference on Monday in Osogbo, Gotan stated that his conscience was clear.

The police commissioner said he had made significant strides in crime-fighting within the one year he has served in the state.

He noted that while individuals have the right to demand his redeployment, his record of achievements would speak for itself.

“Let me make it clear that during my one year in office, the command under my watch has stemmed cases of serious crimes such as banditry, terrorism, cultism, and other social vices.

“Suspected kidnappers, armed robbery suspects, cultists, and vehicle-snatching syndicates have been arrested and prosecuted, with a sizeable number of arms and ammunition recovered,” he said.

Gotan added that stolen vehicles had been recovered, while peaceful engagements with stakeholders had strengthened synergy between the police and other security agencies.

He acknowledged that crime has not been completely eradicated in the state, noting that no security agency can guarantee total elimination.

“In Osun, just like in other states, crime has not been entirely eliminated.

“However, we have reduced the frequency and severity of criminal activities through targeted intelligence-led operations, community cooperation, and visible patrols,” he said.

The CP further stated that some individuals were displeased with ongoing efforts, particularly those benefiting from insecurity.

He reiterated that his primary objective is to implement the policing strategy of the Inspector-General of Police, aimed at ensuring safety and peace across the country.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that some civil society groups, under the Network of Osun Civil Society Groups, staged a protest in Osogbo on Monday, demanding Gotan’s redeployment.

The group alleged that the commissioner was biased and unable to address rising cases of political violence in the state.(NAN)

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