Shoot-On-Sight’ Order? Osun Speaker Makes Explosive Allegation Against Police Commissioner

Egbedun made the allegation in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Olamide Tiamiyu.

The Speaker condemned the alleged directive, arguing that political disagreements should never justify the loss of lives. He stressed that the primary responsibility of the police is to protect citizens and maintain law and order.

He described the alleged order as “deeply alarming and completely unacceptable in a democratic society.”

“Osun State is historically known as a peaceful state. We cannot allow our state to become a theatre of bloodshed because of political disagreements.

“The police are established to protect lives and property, not to take lives. Any directive that encourages officers to shoot citizens without due process is a grave threat to democracy and the rule of law.”

According to Egbedun, the alleged directive raises serious questions about the protection of fundamental human rights and the conduct of security personnel across the state.

Speaker Recalls ‘Killer Squad’ Allegations

The Speaker also recalled previous public allegations about the existence of a “killer squad” within the police establishment, noting that the police had denied such claims.

However, he argued that the denial did not eliminate what he described as a troubling pattern of allegations surrounding police conduct.

Egbedun consequently called for an urgent, transparent and independent investigation into the latest allegation.

He warned against allowing the Nigeria Police Force to become a tool for political intimidation and urged officers to operate within the confines of the law.

“The Nigeria Police Force must not become an instrument for political intimidation. Police officers must serve the Constitution and the Nigerian people, not political interests.”

He added that where genuine security concerns exist at any local government council, law enforcement agencies should respond in accordance with established legal procedures.

“There is no circumstance in which an innocent citizen should be summarily executed simply for being present at a public institution.”

Egbedun Calls on IGP to Probe Allegation

The Speaker called on the Inspector-General of Police to immediately investigate the alleged directive attributed to CP Gotan and publicly clarify the operational orders issued to police formations across Osun State.

He also urged residents, civil society organisations, journalists and human-rights groups to remain vigilant and document any alleged violations of citizens’ rights.

Egbedun warned that he would pursue every lawful means available to seek accountability if any Osun resident loses their life as a result of unlawful police action.

“Let me be absolutely clear: Osun people must not be killed.”

He said those found responsible for any unlawful actions must be held accountable, regardless of their position.