The Executive Director of the World Institute for Peace, Lamina Kamildeen, has defended the institute’s public support for the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, dismissing claims that the organisation has abandoned its neutrality amid the recent security concerns and politically related killings in the state.

Speaking during an interview on Afinju 90.7fm’s current affairs programme, Hard Punch, Lamina maintained that the organisation’s position was not politically motivated but informed by its assessment of the security situation and the Commissioner’s efforts to tackle unresolved criminal cases.

Responding to criticisms that the Institute appeared to be acting as a public relations platform for the Commissioner of Police, the executive director insisted that neither he nor the organisation had been influenced by any individual or political group.

According to him, the Institute has a long history of criticising the Nigeria Police Force whenever officers acted outside the law, adding that supporting the current Commissioner should not be interpreted as political loyalty.

Lamina said the institute’s involvement in issues relating to political violence in Osun predates the appointment of the current Commissioner of Police. He explained that in February 2023, families of victims of the 2022 governorship election violence approached the Institute, alleging that some suspects arrested in connection with politically motivated killings had been released and were allegedly threatening victims’ relatives.

The executive director said the Institute subsequently petitioned the Presidency and several security agencies, including the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Armed Forces, urging authorities to address political thuggery in Osun State and ensure that those responsible for violent crimes were brought to justice.

He added that the organisation also organised advocacy programmes and public engagements aimed at discouraging political violence and promoting peaceful coexistence.

According to Lamina, previous Commissioners of Police, including Mohammed Abba, were engaged by the organisation over unresolved cases of murder and other violent crimes. He noted that while some arrests were made during previous administrations, many victims’ families continued to express concerns over pending investigations and suspects who were yet to face prosecution.

The executive director said the arrival of the current Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, marked renewed efforts to revisit some of the unresolved cases. He claimed that the police command had shown commitment to investigating allegations of murder, kidnapping and other violent offences, as well as pursuing suspects linked to politically related crimes.

He further alleged that opposition to the Commissioner’s continued stay in office was driven by individuals who were uncomfortable with ongoing investigations and efforts to apprehend suspected criminals. He also alleged that political actors should refrain from interfering in the work of security agencies and allow law enforcement officers to carry out their constitutional responsibilities.

The Institute’s executive director also rejected suggestions that the organisation had taken sides against the Osun State Government, maintaining that it is not affiliated with any political party. He challenged anyone accusing the organisation of acting on behalf of political interests to provide evidence of financial inducement or sponsorship.

While acknowledging that some members of the public had questioned the Institute’s support for the Commissioner of Police, Lamina maintained that the organisation’s position was based on petitions and complaints received from families of victims of political violence and on its assessment of the police command’s commitment to pursuing justice.

He reaffirmed the World Institute for Peace’s commitment to advocating for peace, justice and accountability, stressing that the organisation would continue to support security agencies whenever they act professionally, while remaining prepared to criticise any misconduct regardless of the individuals or institutions involved.

The interview comes amid growing public debate over the neutrality of the Osun State Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan, following recent killings and rising security concerns in parts of the state.