Group Applauds Police for Nabbing Murder Suspects, Urges Resistance Against Political Pressure

A civic advocacy group in Osun State, The Watchmen, has lauded the Nigeria Police Force for what it described as a commendable and professional handling of a murder investigation that led to the arrest of several high-profile suspects.

The group expressed its appreciation in a statement signed by its Convener, Oloyede Ganiyu, and distributed to journalists in Osogbo on Friday.

According to the statement, the group specifically commended the police for the apprehension and transfer of Waliyu Adejare, popularly known as Jay Jay, Akinyoola Kehinde, and Olaosebikan Ariyomi, also known as Yahoo, to the Force Intelligence Department (FID) in Abuja.

“We as a group monitor the progress of several cases and this particular one was of interest because the suspects are politically exposed and such suspects usually have their way around arrests,” the statement read.

Describing the arrests as a “positive and bold step in the right direction,” the group emphasized the importance of due process and praised the police for resisting external influence up to this point.

“It’s a thing of joy to see such suspects arrested, investigated and eventually transferred to the FID Abuja. It’s a feat that is worthy of commendation, and the Nigerian Police Force should be praised for their commitment,” Ganiyu said.

However, the group also raised an alarm about alleged political interference, cautioning that certain individuals may be attempting to derail justice.

“We have heard some touts boasting that the arrested suspects will be back in town through the effort of their godfathers, who they claim are big politicians with influence. It is therefore important to appeal to the Police not to bow to pressure by allowing such characters back in the society without facing the law,” the statement added.

In conclusion, The Watchmen urged the police to remain resolute and to intensify their manhunt for other suspects still at large, especially those reportedly hiding in the Ilesa axis of the state.

“The fight for justice must not be selective. We encourage the Police not to relent in its efforts, particularly in arresting those declared wanted across the state,” the group stressed.