POLICE WARN CULT GROUP AGAINST PLANNED PROTEST IN OSUN

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By ‘Sefiu Ajape

The Osun State Police Command has warned against a planned protest allegedly linked to a group identified as the “Congress of Cultists,” which the command said was associated with the Neo-Black Movement, also known as Black Axe.

The warning was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the command’s spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, who described the group as faceless and said intelligence indicated its alleged association with the cult group.

The command cautioned individuals or groups planning to cause chaos, disrupt public peace, or engage in criminal activities to reconsider their actions.

“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.

“Our operatives will respond decisively and appropriately to any action capable of threatening the peace and security of the state,” the statement said.

The police advised individuals or groups with grievances or disputes to pursue lawful means of resolving them, warning against violence, self-help, and reprisal attacks.

The warning came amid an ongoing investigation into a recent killing in the state, with the command saying some suspects linked to the incident had been identified but remained 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. Efforts are ongoing to track them down and bring them to justice,” the statement added.

The command appealed to members of the public with useful information about the killing to come forward, assuring them that such information would be treated confidentially.

It said efforts would continue until all those found to be involved in the incident were arrested and brought before the appropriate authorities.

The Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Zungura, also urged parents, community leaders, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to prevail on youths and other members of their communities against participating in activities capable of destabilising the state.

The police urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, while reporting suspicious activities or movements to the nearest police station or other security agency.

The command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace and public order across the state.