By Ado Oyeyemi
The Ogun State Police Command has dismissed reports that suspected hoodlums laid siege to the palace of the Awujale of Ijebuland in Ijebu-Ode, describing the claims as misleading.
The command said the deployment of security personnel to the palace was a proactive measure to prevent a breakdown of law and order and protect lives and property.
The Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, explaining that the deployment was intended to maintain public peace rather than respond to an ongoing attack on the palace.
According to the police, an Assistant Commissioner of Police was also assigned to supervise the operation and ensure proper coordination of the security personnel.
The command further clarified the circumstances surrounding the invitation of Chief Adebisi Adaran, popularly known as Gbenden, following reports about his encounter with police officers.
It explained that Adaran was invited after the command received a written petition containing allegations against him.
The police said he honoured the invitation, was questioned over the allegations and was subsequently released on self-recognisance, adding that investigations into the matter were ongoing.
The command cautioned against interpreting the invitation as evidence of wrongdoing, stressing that it was part of a lawful investigative process.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, impartiality and respect for the rights of individuals in the discharge of its statutory duties.
The police urged residents to remain calm and refrain from spreading unverified information capable of heightening tension or disrupting public peace.
It reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, maintaining public order and enforcing the law across Ogun State.
