By Ayodele Popoola

The Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Abayomi Peter Oladipo, has ordered an investigation into the rivalry clash which reportedly surfaced in Idanre, amidst preparations for the 2024 Ondo State governorship election.

The CP has also vowed to sanction the perpetrators of the violence, which resulted in shooting and breakdown of public order in the town.

The State Police Public Relations Officer, SP Funmilayo Odunlami, made this known in a statement made available to newsmen on Wednesday, in Akure.

Odunlami said the CP had directed the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter.

Recall that CP Oladipo had earlier in a peace meeting on November 12, 2024, urged the two major political parties in the state to maintain peace and take all necessary precautions to prevent their supporters from inciting violence.

The statement reads: “The Ondo State Police command has intensified efforts in addressing the Idanre rivalry incident, which has surfaced amidst preparations for the 2024 Ondo State governorship election.

“In light of recent developments, the Commissioner of Police, CP Abayomi Peter Oladipo, has directed the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter.

“It is important to note that CP Oladipo had previously convened a peace meeting on November 12, 2024, bringing together leaders of the two major political parties in the area.

“During the meeting, he urged them to maintain peace and take all necessary precautions to prevent their supporters from inciting violence. Despite these efforts, however, disturbances erupted overnight, resulting in shootings and a breakdown of public order.

“The case, which has escalated into violence and attempted murder, is currently under investigation to ensure that those responsible are held accountable and that peace is restored in the area, particularly at such a critical juncture in the state’s history.”

“The CP has made it clear that the Command would not exercise zero tolerance towards any individual or group, whether directly or indirectly involved, who engages in or permits actions that could disrupt the peace before, during, or after the election.”

The police spokesperson added that CP Abayomi called on parents, community leaders, and influential figures to warn their followers, children, and loved ones to avoid any form of disruptive behaviour during this period.

The CP also encouraged the people of Ondo State to utilize the Command’s control line; 07034313903 or report any suspicious activities on its social media handles: X – @OndoPoliceNg

Facebook – Ondo police command; Instagram- Ondo police command.