The Ogun State Police Command has dismissed reports that the Awujale Palace in Ijebu-Ode was under siege by suspected thugs and miscreants, describing the claims as misleading.

The command explained that the deployment of police personnel to the palace was a preventive security measure aimed at maintaining law and order, protecting lives and property, and preventing a possible breakdown of public peace.

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In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the officers were deployed to ensure security and maintain public order.

“The Command wishes to state unequivocally that the deployment of its personnel to the palace was strictly a preventive security measure aimed at maintaining law and order, safeguarding lives and property, and forestalling any breakdown of public peace,” the statement said.

The police spokesperson added that an Assistant Commissioner of Police was assigned to supervise the security arrangement and ensure effective operational coordination.

“To ensure effective supervision and operational coordination, an Assistant Commissioner of Police was deployed to oversee the security arrangement at the palace,” the statement added.

The command also clarified the circumstances surrounding the invitation of Chief Adebisi Adaran, popularly known as Gbenden, following reports about his encounter with the police.

According to the statement, Adaran was invited after the command received a written petition containing allegations against him.

“He honoured the invitation, was questioned in connection with the allegations and was subsequently released on self-recognisance, while investigations continue,” the police said.

The command stressed that his invitation should not be interpreted as an indication of guilt, describing it as part of a legitimate investigative process.

“The invitation was part of a legitimate investigative process and should not be misconstrued as an indication of guilt,” the statement emphasised.

The police further assured residents that the command remained professional and impartial in carrying out its statutory responsibilities, while respecting the rule of law and the rights of individuals.

It urged members of the public to remain calm, disregard misleading reports and avoid circulating unverified information capable of creating unnecessary tension or disturbing public peace.

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“The Ogun State Police Command remains committed to the protection of lives and property, the preservation of public order and the impartial enforcement of the law throughout Ogun State,” the statement added.