The Commissioner of Police in Osun, Samuel Etaifo, has warned against forceful takeover of local government secretariats, premises or properties in the state.

Mr Etaifo, who gave the warning in a statement on Monday in Osogbo, said that those planning to take over local government secretariats forcefully would be arrested and prosecuted.

He noted reports of plans by some individuals or groups to forcefully take over the affairs and premises of local government secretariats, despite the matter being in court.

Mr Etaifo said no individual, political group, or association has the right to resort to self-help or force to assume control of any local government area or public institution while judicial proceedings on such administrative matters are ongoing.

He urged all parties to exercise patience and allow the court to determine the matter under the law.

“Any attempt to forcibly occupy or disrupt local government facilities will be viewed as a serious breach of the peace and dealt with decisively in accordance with the law, including arrest and prosecution of persons found culpable,” Mr Etaifo stated.

He charged parents, community and traditional leaders, political and youth leaders, and other stakeholders to counsel their supporters against acts that could undermine the state’s peace and security.

He equally called on all citizens of Osun to remain calm, respect the rule of law, and allow the judicial process to run its course.

Mr Etaifo assured that the police would continue to protect lives and property, and maintain peace and order throughout the state.

 (NAN)