The Governorship Candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Osun State, Salawu-Adeniyi Mustapha, has commended the Commissioner of Police in the state, CP Ibrahim Gotan, and the Osun State Police Command for what he described as their professionalism and courage in the arrest of an alleged wanted criminal.

In a statement, the SDP candidate praised the police for carrying out an operation that reportedly led to the arrest of a suspect said to have been on the police wanted list, allegedly from the residence of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Teslim Igbalaye.

According to Mustapha, the operation demonstrated that the police were willing to uphold the rule of law without regard to the status or political affiliation of those involved.

“We salute the bravery and professionalism of the Osun State Police Command. By successfully carrying out this operation, the police have reinforced public confidence in the rule of law and shown that no individual is above the law,” he said.

The SDP candidate alleged that the suspect arrested at the SSG’s residence had been wanted for murder and other serious criminal offences, describing the development as disturbing if confirmed.

He also criticised what he described as attempts by the ruling Accord Party to downplay the incident, saying the party’s reaction was an effort to divert attention from the seriousness of the matter.

“It is unacceptable for anyone to trivialise an issue of this magnitude. The Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria does not permit anyone, regardless of status, to harbour a criminal fugitive or obstruct the course of justice,” the statement said.

Mustapha further alleged that the Accord Party’s criticism of the police stemmed from dissatisfaction that the command had carried out its constitutional responsibilities without political interference.

“The ruling party is only protesting because the police chose to act professionally rather than succumb to political pressure. Security agencies must be allowed to perform their constitutional duties without intimidation or interference,” he stated.

Reaffirming the SDP’s commitment to peaceful campaigns, Mustapha said his party remained dedicated to ensuring that the forthcoming Osun State governorship election is conducted in a peaceful, free, fair and credible atmosphere.

“The Osun SDP is a peace-loving party. Our desire is to see an election that is devoid of violence, thuggery and all forms of electoral misconduct. We therefore urge all security agencies to sustain their vigilance and professionalism in safeguarding lives, property and the integrity of the electoral process,” he added.

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