Political Tensions Escalate Over Amotekun Commandant’s Whereabouts
The political landscape in Osun State has become increasingly tense following the alleged involvement of Amotekun operatives in the tragic killings in Akinlalu community. The incident has sparked a public exchange between the state governor, Ademola Adeleke, and the All Progressives Congress (APC), with both sides accusing each other of failing to uphold justice and accountability.
According to reports, Amotekun personnel were implicated in an attack on Akinlalu Market Square, resulting in the deaths of three members of the same family and another resident, while several others were injured by gunshot wounds. This event has led to widespread concern and calls for transparency from the authorities.
Isaac Omoyele, the Amotekun Commandant, claimed he narrowly escaped an assassination attempt. However, this claim was dismissed by the police, adding to the growing suspicion surrounding his actions and whereabouts.
In response to the escalating situation, the Intelligence Response Team (IRT) of the Inspector-General of Police arrested 25 Amotekun operatives on Wednesday night. Additionally, they sealed the operational armoury base at Oke-Fia, Osogbo, as well as the outfit’s Ife Central office. These actions signify a serious step towards addressing the allegations against the group.
APC Accuses Governor of Hypocrisy
The APC, through its Director of Media and Information, Chief Kola Olabisi, has called on Governor Adeleke to produce the Amotekun Commandant for police investigation. Olabisi accused the governor of hypocrisy, highlighting that while Adeleke publicly commended the police for their professional handling of the case, he had failed to ensure Omoyele’s appearance before investigators.
Olabisi emphasized that justice and accountability demand full cooperation from the state government with security agencies to uncover the truth behind the Akinlalu killings. He urged the governor to prioritize the exposure of the Commander of Osun Amotekun, Mr. Isaac Adekunle Omoyele.
“However, to prove that he was not merely paying a lip-service to the call for prosecution of the blood-sucking vampires responsible for the carnage of innocent souls at Akinlalu, Governor Adeleke should prioritise the exposition of the Commander of Osun Amotekun, Mr Isaac Adekunle Omoyele.”
He further criticized the governor for allegedly allowing Omoyele to evade arrest, suggesting that if the rumors circulating in Osogbo are true, it would be a condemnable and irresponsible act.
Governor Defends His Position
In response to the APC’s accusations, Governor Adeleke through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, rejected calls for interference in the ongoing investigation into the Akinlalu incident. He described the opposition’s allegations as another example of a losing party struggling for relevance.
The governor reiterated his trust in the ongoing police investigation to unravel the details of the unfortunate killings at Akinlalu. He cautioned against the politicization of a matter of law and order, stating:
“The Akinlalu matter is a question of law and order and the Inspector General of Police has acted on the matter. The police is conducting an active investigation. Our government will not intervene or interfere.”
He noted that “The opposition’s allegations are unfounded and baseless. The Osun APC in want of direction and strategy has grown to be a constant purveyor of fake news.”
Ongoing Investigations and Public Concerns
As the investigation continues, the public remains concerned about the safety and security of their communities. The events in Akinlalu have raised significant questions about the role of Amotekun and the effectiveness of the security forces in preventing such incidents.
With the political tensions mounting, it is clear that the resolution of this matter will require a transparent and impartial approach from all parties involved. The need for accountability and justice for the victims and their families remains paramount.