A civil society group has called on the Inspector-General of Police to direct the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police to immediately arrest and interrogate a former deputy governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Deji Ogunsakin, over an alleged attack on a party member, Ayodele Osanyinbola, in Ado-Ekiti.
The group made the demand following reports that Osanyinbola was allegedly beaten by suspected political thugs during a meeting reportedly convened by Ogunsakin at his residence.
According to accounts of the incident, the victim was allegedly accused of attending a recent presidential rally organised by the All Progressives Congress, an accusation said to have preceded the attack.
Osanyinbola was reportedly left with serious injuries and subsequently admitted to a hospital in critical condition.
Describing the incident as disturbing and unacceptable, the group said the circumstances surrounding the alleged assault raised serious concerns about political intolerance, intimidation and the growing resort to violence in political engagements.
It urged the Inspector-General of Police to intervene by directing the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police to ensure Ogunsakin’s immediate arrest and interrogation to establish his alleged involvement and determine the identities of those who carried out the attack.
The group also called for a comprehensive investigation into the meeting, the events leading to the assault and the alleged roles of everyone connected with the incident.
It further urged the police to identify and prosecute all individuals found culpable, irrespective of their political affiliations or social standing.
The statement, signed by Comrade Adeola Mathew, stressed that political differences or disagreements over party loyalty could not justify physical violence against any individual.
It added that the demand for police action was not politically motivated but intended to ensure accountability, protect fundamental human rights and uphold the rule of law.
The group also called for adequate protection for Osanyinbola and his family, urging the police to prevent any attempt to intimidate witnesses or interfere with the investigation.
It maintained that no individual should be considered above the law, adding that the police must demonstrate their commitment to justice by conducting a transparent and impartial investigation.
As of the time of issuing the statement, the allegations had not been independently established, and Ogunsakin’s response was not contained in the statement.