By OLAJIDE IDOWU

The Commissioner of Police in Osun , Ibrahim Gotan, has urged political parties to conduct themselves peacefully and in accordance with the law ahead of the Aug. 15 governorship election.

Gotan made the call on Wednesday during a strategic stakeholders’ peace meeting against violence ahead of the governorship election at the State Police Command in Osogbo.

He said the meeting was convened to highlight key responsibilities expected of political actors and their supporters.

The commissioner advised political parties and candidates to notify the police and other relevant security agencies in advance of any rally, campaign, procession or political gathering.

He noted that early notification would enable security agencies to deploy personnel effectively, ensure adequate security coverage, manage traffic, prevent clashes and safeguard both participants and the general public.

Gotan also condemned the destruction, defacement and removal of opponents’ campaign materials, including billboards, banners and posters, stressing that such acts must cease.

According to him, such actions are unlawful and capable of provoking retaliation, heightening tension and escalating political hostility.

“Political competition should be based on ideas, policies and programmes, not on the destruction of opponents’ property,” he said.

The police chief further cautioned against late-night rallies, noting that such activities pose security challenges, increase the risk of criminal acts and make effective monitoring difficult.

He emphasised that all campaign activities, public engagements and political communications must strictly comply with the provisions of the Electoral Act and other relevant laws.

“Compliance with the law is essential to maintaining the integrity of the electoral process. No individual or group is above the law,” he said.

Gotan also warned against thuggery, gangsterism and the recruitment or sponsorship of political thugs.

“Violence and intimidation have no place in a democratic society. Political leaders must caution their supporters against acts capable of disrupting public peace and refrain from supporting or protecting individuals engaged in criminal conduct,” he added.

He urged stakeholders to shun hate speech and inciting statements, and to embrace a violence-free campaign environment.

According to him, the people of Osun deserve a free, fair, credible and peaceful election, adding that stakeholders must act in ways that strengthen democracy, promote stability and protect lives and property.

Also speaking, the Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, commended the police commissioner for the initiative.

She said the meeting underscored the importance of collaboration, dialogue and continuous engagement among stakeholders in the electoral process.

“Meetings of this nature provide an opportunity to address concerns, strengthen trust and collectively identify measures that will guarantee a peaceful electoral environment,” she said.

Babalola, however, condemned recent incidents of violence in the state, which she said resulted in loss of lives and heightened apprehension among citizens and stakeholders.

She stressed the urgent need for sustained dialogue, responsible conduct and renewed commitment to peaceful participation.

“We strongly believe that engagements such as this will go a long way in addressing concerns, reducing tension and promoting peace as we approach the election,” she said.

The INEC official added that the commission remains committed to conducting elections that meet the highest standards of transparency, integrity and credibility in a peaceful environment. (NAN)