The Ogun State Police Command has firmly rejected allegations that the Awujale Palace in Ijebu-Ode is under siege, clarifying that its recent deployment of personnel was a preventive measure designed to maintain law and order. In a statement issued on Wednesday, the command described reports of a siege by thugs or miscreants as misleading and emphasized that its actions were strictly aimed at safeguarding lives and property.
The clarification comes during a tense period surrounding the Awujale stool, which has remained vacant since the death of Oba Sikiru Adetona in July 2025. DSP Oluseyi B. Babaseyi, the Police Public Relations Officer for the command, stated unequivocally that the police presence was intended to forestall any breakdown of public peace rather than to engage in conflict.
Security Coordination and Oversight
To ensure effective supervision and coordination of the security arrangements, the command disclosed that an Assistant Commissioner of Police was deployed to the palace. This high-level oversight was part of a broader strategy to manage the situation professionally and impartially, guided by the rule of law and respect for the rights of all individuals.
The statement also addressed the circumstances surrounding the invitation of Chief Adebisi Adaran, popularly known as Gbenden. The police explained that Adaran was invited following a written petition containing specific allegations against him. According to the command, Adaran honored the invitation and was questioned in connection with the allegations before being released on self-recognisance, with investigations continuing.
“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 Ogun State Police Command stressed that the invitation of Chief Adaran was a standard part of a legitimate investigative process and should not be misconstrued as an indication of guilt. The command reaffirmed its commitment to professional conduct and impartiality in discharging its statutory responsibilities.
Members of the public were advised to remain calm and disregard misleading reports. The police urged residents to refrain from circulating unverified information that could generate unnecessary tension or disturb public peace in the region.
<small>Source: The Sun Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
