The Osun State Police Command has warned individuals and groups against participating in a planned protest allegedly linked to a group identified as the “Congress of Cultists.”
The command said intelligence available to it indicated that the group was allegedly associated with the Neo-Black Movement, also known as Black Axe. The warning was contained in a statement issued on Sunday by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, on behalf of the Commissioner of Police, CP Ibrahim Zungura.
According to the police, the planned protest could threaten public peace if participants engage in violence, criminal activities or attempts to disrupt the peaceful atmosphere in the state.
The command warned that security agencies would respond decisively to any action capable of threatening lives, property and public order.
The police urged individuals or groups with grievances to pursue lawful means of resolving their disputes rather than resorting to violence, self-help or reprisal attacks.
The warning comes amid an ongoing investigation into a recent killing in the state. Police said the investigation had produced useful leads, while some suspects identified in connection with the incident remained at large.
The command appealed to residents with relevant information about the incident to contact the police, assuring them that such information would be treated confidentially.
Commissioner Zungura also called on parents, community leaders, traditional rulers and religious leaders to discourage youths from participating in activities capable of destabilising the state.
The police urged residents to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant, while reporting suspicious movements or activities to the nearest police station or other security agencies.
The command reaffirmed its commitment to protecting lives and property and maintaining peace and public order across Osun State.
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