Accord Seeks Removal of Irewole DPO, Alleges Failure to Curb Political Violence
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
The Accord Party in Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State has called for the immediate removal of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Mr. Olatona Bamidele, alleging that he has failed to address what the party described as rising political violence and insecurity in the area.
In a statement issued by its Irewole Local Government chapter, the party accused the DPO of not taking adequate steps to curb attacks on its members, arguing that the situation has exposed serious lapses in local law enforcement.
Accord condemned what it described as “state-backed political banditry” and expressed concern over the increasing number of violent incidents allegedly targeted at its members. According to the party, the development has created fear among residents and poses a threat to democratic participation within the local government.
The party said the latest incident occurred at about 8:00 p.m. on Monday along the UNIOSUN Campus Road in Ikire, where one of its members, Mr. Taofeeq Akinyemi, popularly known as “Paramole,” was allegedly attacked at his place of business by suspected political thugs.
According to the statement, the attack was carried out by individuals allegedly linked to the opposition’s governorship candidate and led by Akinkunmi Alabi, popularly known as “Ojuyobo.”
Accord further noted that the assault took place at the same location where one of its members, the late Kolade Eluyera, was previously killed. The party described the development as evidence of what it called a disturbing pattern of politically motivated violence in the area.
The party also expressed dissatisfaction with the response of the police, claiming that several reports of attacks and intimidation against its members had been submitted to the Irewole Police Command without any meaningful action.
It alleged that despite repeated incidents of violence in Ikire and surrounding communities, no arrests or prosecutions had been made.
Consequently, Accord called on the Inspector-General of Police to initiate a comprehensive investigation into the security situation in Irewole Local Government and redeploy the DPO from the division.
The party argued that such action would help restore public confidence in law enforcement and demonstrate a commitment to addressing the security concerns raised by residents.
Accord also urged independent security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the recent assault and other related incidents.
The party maintained that all individuals found culpable, including alleged sponsors and perpetrators of the attacks, should be brought to justice. It reaffirmed its commitment to pursuing lawful means to protect its members and ensure the sustenance of peace and democratic values in Irewole Local Government Area.
