By John Dike, Osogbo
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, has condemned the killing of two persons at the Naira and Kobo Motor Park in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State.
It also condemned the reported attack on a police patrol team that responded to a distress call during the incident, in which two police officers were injured and a patrol vehicle was reportedly destroyed.
The NUJ described the development as a serious threat to public safety and peaceful coexistence, calling for urgent and decisive action by security agencies to prevent a recurrence.
In a statement signed by its State Chairman, Comrade Adeyemi Aboderin, and Secretary, Comrade Olalekan Akindoju, the union urged the Osun State Police Command to conduct a thorough investigation into the incident and ensure that those responsible for the killings and attack on police personnel are brought to justice.
The Council stressed that the destruction of government property and attacks on security personnel should not be allowed to go unchecked, warning that such incidents could undermine public confidence in the ability of security agencies to protect lives and property.
It also appealed to residents and community leaders in Ikire to cooperate with the security agencies by providing credible and timely information that could assist investigators in identifying and apprehending those behind the violence.
The NUJ welcomed the newly posted Commissioner of Police in Osun State, CP Ibrahim Zungura, and charged him to make the protection of lives and property a priority of his administration.
It urged the new police commissioner to strengthen intelligence-led policing, community policing and rapid response mechanisms, particularly in areas prone to violent attacks and criminal activities.
Also, it called on the police command to intensify efforts against cultism, thuggery and other forms of organised violence capable of threatening peace and security across the state.
According to the NUJ, attacks on police officers must be treated seriously, with thorough investigations and prosecution of perpetrators to deter others from attacking security personnel in the course of their duties.
The union further urged the new police leadership to uphold professionalism, respect for human rights and accountability in police operations, stressing that public confidence could only be restored through effective policing, regular engagement with communities and transparent communication.
It appealed to residents of Osun State to remain calm and law-abiding, while urging security agencies to act swiftly against individuals and groups threatening the peace of the state.
The NUJ commiserated with the families of those who lost their lives in the Ikire incident and wished the injured police officers a speedy recovery.
It said it remained committed to supporting efforts aimed at promoting peace, responsible journalism and public safety across Osun State.
