Osun: Armed thugs attack INEC officials, cart away packs of PVCs

By Olajide Idowu

Armed hoodlums have attacked officials of Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials in Odo-Otin Local Government Area of Osun State and carted away three packs of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

The police announced the incident, the latest in a series of violence that have characterised the run up to the August 15 Osun governorship election in a statement on Sunday.

According to the statement issued in Osogbo by the spokesperson Osun command, DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, the suspected thugs, numbering about 10, attacked INEC officials who were distributing Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) at Oyinlola DC Primary School, Ward 2, Odo-Otin Local Government Area.

Ojelabi said the hoodlums reportedly fired sporadically into the air to scare the INEC officials away before carting away the three packs of PVCs.

Ojelabi said the Commissioner of Police in the state, Ibrahim Gotan, condemned the incident and has directed a comprehensive investigation, with a view to identifying, arresting and prosecuting the perpetrators.

“Tactical and intelligence assets have been deployed, and efforts have been intensified to apprehend the perpetrators and recover the stolen PVCs,” Ojelabi said.

He reiterates the command’s commitment to professionalism and strict adherence to the rule of law in the discharge of its responsibilities.

The command’s spokesperson urged members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding and refrain from any action capable of causing further breach of peace.

Ojelabi appealed to residents and eyewitnesses with credible information that may assist the ongoing investigation to promptly report to the nearest police station or contact the command through its emergency lines.

He warned that anyone found exploiting the incident to foment violence or disrupt public order will be dealt with in accordance with the law.

Ojelabi also said operatives of Osun command had restored peace in Ile-Ife after suspected thugs, that gathered around the Mayfair Garage area, became unruly, resulting in a temporary disruption of public peace and order.

He assured residents of the police unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property, as well as maintaining peace, law and order.

(NAN)