Police say Awujale Palace is safe, dismiss rumors

The Ogun State Police Command has rejected claims that the Awujale Palace in Ijebu-Ode was under attack by thugs. They called these reports misleading.

The police said they sent officers to the palace as a safety measure. This was to keep the peace, protect lives and property, and stop any unrest.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Oluseyi Babas​​eyi, explained that officers were at the palace to ensure security and public order.

“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 statement said.

The police spokesperson mentioned that an Assistant Commissioner of Police was assigned to oversee the security setup. This was to make sure everything was coordinated well.

“To ensure effective supervision and operational coordination, an Assistant Commissioner of Police was deployed to oversee the security arrangement at the palace,” the statement added.

The command also explained why Chief Adebisi Adaran, also known as Gbenden, was invited by the police. This followed reports about his interaction with law enforcement.

The statement said Adaran was invited after police got a written complaint with allegations against him.

“He honoured the invitation, was questioned in connection with the allegations and was subsequently released on self-recognisance, while investigations continue,” the police said.

The police made it clear that this invitation does not mean he is guilty. They said it is part of a proper investigation process.

“The invitation was part of a legitimate investigative process and should not be misconstrued as an indication of guilt,” the statement emphasised.

The police also reassured the public that they act professionally and fairly. They respect the law and the rights of everyone.

They asked people to stay calm, ignore false reports, and not share unverified information that could cause panic or disrupt public peace.

“The Ogun State Police Command remains committed to the protection of lives and property, the preservation of public order and the impartial enforcement of the law throughout Ogun State,” the statement added.