The Osun State Police Command has officially declared five individuals wanted following a severe escalation of politically motivated violence and civil unrest that has gripped several parts of the state since June.
The security clampdown follows a series of violent clashes resulting in tragic property destruction and the loss of multiple lives across several communities.
The wanted individuals have been identified by the police command as Dauda Olamilekan, also known as Emir; Taoreed, alias Small Rugged; Adetunji Kamoru Olatunde; Saka Afees, widely known as Terror; and Adeyemi Saheed.
Speaking on the development, the command spokesperson, Abiodun Ojelabi, emphasized that security forces are intensifying manhunts across the region to apprehend those connected to the ongoing crisis.
"The command remains committed to maintaining peace and security across the state while ensuring that those suspected of involvement in criminal activities are brought to justice," Ojelabi stated.
Political tensions have grown volatile across Osun State, leading to a wave of insecurity that has claimed several lives, including a teenager named Olapade Ezekiel in Ilobu, Comrade Abdullateef Olamilekan, 70-year-old Kazeem Akande in Osogbo, Ajayi Aderogba in Esa-Oke, and a victim identified as Eluyera in Ikire.
Authorities have urged residents with actionable intelligence regarding the whereabouts of the suspects to step forward and assist law enforcement officers.
Furthermore, the police command has appealed to members of the public to maintain vigilance and promptly report any suspicious or criminal activities to the nearest police station to help restore order.