The Nigeria Police Force has made a stunning leadership change in Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election, deploying a new Commissioner of Police as political tension continues to rise.
The decision comes after months of criticism against former Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan over allegations of bias and his handling of election-related security matters. Although the police have not officially linked the move to the complaints.
The newly deployed commissioner, Samuel Erale, is expected to oversee security during the highly anticipated governorship election.
Confirming the development, the Police Public Relations Officer in Osun State, Abiodun Ojelabi, said the new commissioner had been assigned to the state.
“What we have is that election CP is being deployed to Osun State. Although he is yet to report or assume office,” Ojelabi said.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that the former commissioner has been assigned to a special duty at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
His redeployment came shortly after police released Osun’s Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, who was arrested during a controversial operation linked to alleged vote-buying and the search for a wanted suspect.
However, the operation generated strong reactions from political stakeholders. The Osun State Government and the ruling Accord Party described the action as politically motivated, while the police maintained it was part of a lawful investigation.
In addition, civil society groups had earlier demanded the removal of the former commissioner, claiming his command failed to remain neutral during politically sensitive incidents.
The situation has also reminded many residents of the 2022 governorship election, when another police commissioner was replaced before the polls following similar concerns about fairness and impartiality.
However, the Osun governorship election is said to feature Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party, APC candidate Bola Oyebamiji and candidates from 12 other political parties.
