Ajagungbade's Death: None Of Our Members Were Arrested, We Handed Them Over To The Police - Osun Amotekun Chief

The attention of the Osun State Amotekun Corps has been drawn to reports circulating on social media alleging that five operatives of the Corps were arrested by the police in connection with the death of the late Oyeyemi Ajagungbade Emir and the recent attacks in Ile-Ife.

The Osun Amotekun Corps wishes to state categorically that the report, as presented, is misleading and does not reflect the true circumstances of the matter.

For the avoidance of doubt, the Police did not arrest the Amotekun operatives in question. Rather, the Corps Commander of the Osun State Amotekun Corps, High Chief Dr. Hon. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele, in the interest of transparency, accountability and a thorough investigation, personally handed over four operatives attached to NURTW chieftain Alowonle Nurudeen to the Osun State Police Command.

The decision was taken to enable the police to conduct their investigation and unravel the circumstances surrounding the attacks in Ile-Ife. The operatives were therefore made available to the appropriate security authority as part of the investigative process.

It is important that members of the public and media practitioners distinguish between being arrested and being voluntarily handed over for investigation. The circumstances surrounding the four operatives should not be misrepresented or sensationalised before the conclusion of the police investigation.

The Osun Amotekun Corps remains committed to professionalism, discipline, accountability and cooperation with other security agencies. The Corps does not condone indiscipline or any conduct capable of undermining public confidence in the security architecture of the state.

We therefore appeal to journalists, bloggers, social media commentators and members of the public to verify information before publishing or circulating reports, particularly on sensitive security matters capable of causing unnecessary tension or damaging the reputation of individuals and institutions.

The Corps further urges the public to allow the police investigation to run its full course and refrain from reaching premature conclusions or passing judgment on the operatives involved.

The Osun Amotekun Corps will continue to support the police and other relevant security agencies in their efforts to establish the facts surrounding the Ile-Ife attacks and ensure that anyone found culpable is made to face the law.

The Corps remains committed to protecting lives and property and upholding the rule of law.