Accord Party Demands Removal of Irewole LG DPO Over Alleged Failure to Curb Political Violence

The Accord Party in Irewole Local Government Area has called for the immediate removal of the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), Mr. Olatona Bamidele, accusing him of failing to address what it described as escalating political violence and insecurity in the area. The party alleged that the continued attacks on its members have exposed serious lapses in local law enforcement.

In a statement issued by the party's Irewole Local Government chapter, Accord condemned what it termed "state-backed political banditry" and expressed concern over the growing number of violent incidents targeting its members. The party maintained that the situation has created fear among residents and threatens democratic participation in the local government.

The latest incident reportedly occurred at about 8:00 p.m. on Monday along the UNIOSUN Campus Road in Ikire. According to the party, one of its members, Mr. Taofeeq Akinyemi, popularly known as "Paramole," was attacked at his place of business by suspected political thugs.

Accord alleged that the attack was carried out by individuals linked to the opposition's gubernatorial candidate and led by Akinkunmi Alabi, also known as "Ojuyobo." The party further noted that the assault took place at the same location where one of its members, the late Kolade Eluyera, was previously killed, describing the development as evidence of a disturbing pattern of politically motivated violence.

The party expressed dissatisfaction with the response of the police, claiming that several reports of attacks and intimidation against its members had been submitted to the Irewole Police Command without any meaningful action. Accord alleged that no arrests or prosecutions have been made despite repeated incidents of violence in Ikire and surrounding communities.

Consequently, the party called on the Inspector-General of Police to launch an investigation into the security situation in Irewole Local Government and to redeploy the DPO. It argued that such a move would help restore public confidence in law enforcement and demonstrate a commitment to addressing the concerns raised by residents.

Accord also urged independent security agencies to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the recent assault and other related incidents. The party insisted that all individuals found responsible, including alleged sponsors and perpetrators, should be brought to justice, while reaffirming its commitment to pursuing lawful means to protect its members and maintain peace in the local government area.