The Osun State Police Command has warned against a planned protest allegedly organised by a group calling itself the “Congress of Cultists”, amid heightened tension following the killing of Olalekan Dauda Oyeyemi, popularly known as “Emir Ajagungbade”.
Police spokesperson, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said in a statement on Sunday that intelligence available to the command indicated that the purported group was allegedly associated with the Neo-Black Movement, also known as Black Axe.
The command described the group as “faceless” and warned individuals or groups planning to use the proposed protest to cause chaos, disrupt public order 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,” the statement said.
The command added that its operatives would respond “decisively and appropriately” to any action capable of threatening the peace and security of Osun State.
The warning comes about a week after Oyeyemi was shot dead in Ile-Ife during a dispute reportedly connected with control of a motor park.
Police subsequently commenced an investigation into the killing, while Governor Ademola Adeleke directed security agencies to arrest those responsible.
According to the state police command, the ongoing investigation had produced useful leads, with some suspects identified in connection with the incident but still at large.
“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,” Ojelabi said.
The command appealed to residents with useful information about the killing to assist investigators, assuring them that such information would be treated confidentially.
It also advised individuals and groups with grievances or disputes to pursue lawful channels rather than resorting to violence, self-help or reprisal attacks.
Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Zungura, urged parents, community leaders, traditional rulers and religious leaders to caution youths and other residents against participating in activities capable of destabilising the state.
The command further appealed to residents to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, while urging them to report suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or other security agency.
Police said efforts would continue until those found culpable in the recent killing are arrested and brought before the appropriate authorities.
The circumstances surrounding Oyeyemi’s death remain the subject of police investigation.
Earlier reports said he was shot during a confrontation linked to a dispute over motor-park leadership in Ile-Ife, while allegations by individuals or groups concerning responsibility for the killing have not been independently established.
