The Osun State Police Command has warned against a planned protest allegedly linked to a faceless group identified as the “Congress of Cultists,” said to be associated with the Neo-Black Movement, popularly known as Black Axe.
The warning followed intelligence received by the command about the planned protest, amid an ongoing investigation into a recent killing in the state.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the command said it would not allow individuals or groups to exploit the situation to cause chaos, disrupt public peace or threaten lives and property.
The statement was signed by the command’s spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura.
The police urged anyone planning to participate in acts capable of causing violence or a breakdown of law and order to reconsider. “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,” the statement said.
The command said its operatives would respond “decisively and appropriately” to any action capable of threatening the peace and security of Osun State.
It also urged individuals or groups with grievances to pursue lawful means of resolving their disputes rather than resorting to violence, reprisal attacks or self-help.
The police disclosed that a “thorough and discreet investigation” into the recent killing had commenced, adding that the investigation had produced useful leads.
According to the command, some suspects identified in connection with the incident were still at large, while efforts were ongoing to arrest them and bring them to justice.
The police appealed to members of the public with information about the killing to come forward and assist investigators, assuring them that such information would be treated confidentially.
The command also called on parents, community leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other responsible members of the public to prevail on youths not to participate in activities capable of destabilising the state.
Residents were advised to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding, and to report suspicious activities or movements to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
The police reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace and public order across the state.
