Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared that no individual is above the law, directing security agencies to arrest anyone found guilty of criminal conduct, including members of his own family. The Adeleke crime warning came during a meeting with Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun’s representative, where the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the rule of law and public safety.
Adeleke made the remarks on Friday while responding to concerns raised during a courtesy visit by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, to the Government House in Osogbo.
During the meeting, the Inspector-General said he had been informed by the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, that some criminal suspects being sought by law enforcement were allegedly taking refuge within the Government House. Responding to the allegation, Adeleke firmly denied providing protection for any criminal suspect and urged the police to carry out their responsibilities without fear or favour.
“If you see any of my people that committed a crime, arrest them. If it is my son who committed a crime, arrest him, let him learn his lesson, and that is what I am saying in front of the IGP,” the governor said. The Adeleke crime warning underscored his position that family ties should never interfere with the administration of justice.
While reiterating his support for law enforcement agencies, Adeleke criticised what he described as unprofessional conduct by some police officers. He referred to the handling of the investigation into the killing of a 14-year-old boy in Ilobu, alleging that an officer who arrested a suspect connected to the case was later transferred despite carrying out his duties. According to the governor, the officer had acted under the directive of the Inspector-General of Police before the transfer occurred.
Adeleke welcomed the Inspector-General’s commitment to tackling indiscipline within the Nigeria Police Force and urged officers to remain impartial in the discharge of their duties. He praised the assurance that misconduct would not be tolerated and encouraged the police to continue enforcing the law fairly.
“I am glad the Inspector General of Police is here today, and he has said it openly that he will not tolerate any act of indiscipline, and he has given you a warning that you will not tolerate crime. That is why I am happy,” Adeleke said. The governor also pledged his administration’s continued cooperation with the police, stressing that the relationship between the state government and security agencies should remain focused on protecting lives and maintaining law and order.
“We will continue to cooperate with the police. Police is our friend. We are not fighting the police, but you have to do right,” he added. The Adeleke crime warning comes amid renewed calls for accountability, professionalism and stronger collaboration between state governments and security agencies in tackling crime across Nigeria.
