The Ogun State Police Command has dismissed reports claiming that the Awujale Palace in Ijebu-Ode was under siege by suspected thugs and miscreants, describing the reports as misleading.
The Command said its deployment of personnel to the palace was a preventive security measure, aimed at maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and preventing any potential breakdown of public peace.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the deployment was made to ensure adequate security and maintain public order around the palace.
“The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the deployment of its personnel to the palace was strictly a preventive security measure aimed at maintaining law and order, safeguarding lives and property, and forestalling any breakdown of public peace,” the statement said.
To strengthen the security arrangement, the Command said an Assistant Commissioner of Police was deployed to supervise operations and ensure effective coordination of the personnel stationed at the palace.
The police also provided clarification on the invitation of Chief Adebisi Adaran, popularly known as Gbenden, following reports concerning his encounter with security operatives.
According to the Command, Adaran was invited after police received a written petition containing allegations against him.
“He honoured the invitation, was questioned in connection with the allegations and was subsequently released on self-recognisance, while investigations continue,” the statement said.
Police stressed that the invitation should not be interpreted as an indication that Adaran was guilty of any offence.
Rather, the Command said, the invitation formed part of its normal investigative process following the receipt of a petition.
“The invitation was part of a legitimate investigative process and should not be misconstrued as an indication of guilt,” the police said.
The Command assured residents of Ogun State that it would continue to carry out its statutory responsibilities professionally and impartially, while respecting the rule of law and the rights of individuals.
It also urged members of the public to remain calm and disregard reports capable of creating unnecessary tension in Ijebu-Ode.
Police advised residents to avoid circulating unverified information, warning that such reports could cause unnecessary anxiety and disturb public peace.
The Command reiterated its commitment to protecting lives and property, preserving public order and enforcing the law impartially across Ogun State.
