Osun State Police Commissioner Ibrahim Gotan has told protesters demanding his redeployment that his record of achievements will speak for itself.
The commissioner was reacting on Monday in Osogbo to allegations of bias in handling politically related violence in the state. A group called the Network of Osun Civil Society Groups had staged a protest demanding he be moved out.
Gotan said his conscience is clear. He argued that within one year in office, his command has significantly reduced serious crimes including banditry, terrorism, cultism, and other social vices.
"Let me make it clear that during my one year in office, the command under my watch has stemmed cases of serious crimes such as banditry, terrorism, cultism, and other social vices," Gotan said.
He listed specific achievements: suspected kidnappers, armed robbery suspects, cultists, and vehicle-snatching syndicates have been arrested and prosecuted. A sizeable number of arms and ammunition have been recovered. Stolen vehicles have been returned to owners.
Gotan acknowledged that crime hasn't been completely wiped out in Osun. He said no security agency can guarantee total elimination. But he insists the frequency and severity of criminal activities have dropped through targeted intelligence-led operations, community cooperation, and visible patrols.
The commissioner suggested that some people are unhappy with his efforts — particularly those who benefit from insecurity.
He reiterated that his primary goal is to implement the policing strategy of the Inspector-General of Police, aimed at ensuring safety and peace across the country.
Gotan was appointed Commissioner of Police for Osun State about a year ago. Before that, he served in various capacities in the Nigeria Police Force, including as Commissioner of Police in other states.
The Network of Osun Civil Society Groups had alleged that Gotan was biased and unable to address rising cases of political violence in the state. But the commissioner didn't address specific incidents during his briefing.
Political violence has been a recurring issue in Osun State, especially during election periods. The state has seen clashes between supporters of the two major political parties — the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) — in recent years.
Gotan's rejection of the redeployment calls means the matter now rests with the police high command in Abuja. The Inspector-General of Police has the authority to transfer or retain any commissioner.
For now, Gotan remains in charge of policing in Osun. And he isn't backing down.