The Osun State Police Command has warned residents against participating in a planned protest allegedly organised by a group identified as the “Congress of Cultists,” which the command said was linked to the Neo-Black Movement, popularly known as Black Axe.
The warning was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi.
According to the police, the group behind the planned protest is “faceless” and intelligence available to the command indicated its alleged association with a cult organisation.
The command urged anyone planning to use the protest to cause disorder, disrupt public peace or commit criminal acts to abandon such plans.
“The police and other security agencies will not fold their hands and allow miscreants to use any opportunity to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere and destruction of lives and properties,” the statement said.
The command further warned that security personnel would respond to any activity considered capable of threatening the peace and security of the state.
“Our operatives will respond decisively and appropriately to any action capable of threatening the peace and security of the state,” the police added.
The warning followed an ongoing investigation into a recent killing in the state. The police said the investigation had produced useful leads and that some suspects allegedly connected to the incident had been identified but were still at large.
“Meanwhile, a thorough and discreet investigation has commenced into the recent killing incident. The investigation has yielded useful leads, while some of the suspects identified in connection with the incident are currently at large,” the command stated.
The police appealed to members of the public who have information that could assist the investigation to come forward, assuring them that such information would be treated confidentially.
The command also urged individuals or groups with grievances to pursue lawful channels for resolving disputes rather than resorting to violence, self-help or reprisal attacks.
The Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura, called on parents, community leaders, traditional rulers and religious leaders to discourage youths and other residents from engaging in activities capable of destabilising the state.
The command advised residents to remain calm and vigilant and report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
It reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace and public order across Osun State.
