Osun Police Explain Delay in Searching Government House After IGP Disu’s Claim of Wanted Criminals

The Osun State Police Command has explained why security operatives have yet to search the Government House days after Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, alleged that wanted criminals were hiding within the premises.

Speaking during a stakeholders’ forum on credible elections organised by the International Press Centre in partnership with the European Union, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Abiodun Ojelabi, said the command is following due process before taking any action.

The controversy began after IGP Disu, during a recent visit to Osun State ahead of the August 15, 2026, governorship election, informed Governor Ademola Adeleke that intelligence reports suggested some wanted criminals were hibernating in the Government House.

Responding at the time, Governor Adeleke reportedly told the police chief that anyone found committing a crime, including his own son, should be arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

Addressing journalists, Ojelabi explained that Government House enjoys constitutional protections and cannot be searched without complying with established legal procedures.

“Government House has its own immunity, and as the IGP has said, there are procedures we need to follow before accessing it. Otherwise, we could be accused of infringing on the governor’s privacy, which is a serious allegation,” he said.

The police spokesperson added that investigators are carefully reviewing intelligence and ensuring every legal requirement is met before carrying out any operation.

“We are careful, we are taking our time, and we are following the process and procedures. The information we have is still being worked on so that if we eventually access the Government House, we will go directly and carry out what we need to do,” Ojelabi stated.

He assured residents that the police remain committed to arresting any wanted suspects, regardless of where they may be hiding.

According to the command, security agencies will continue to pursue criminal elements across Osun State while ensuring that all operations comply with the law and respect constitutional safeguards.

The remarks come as security agencies intensify preparations ahead of the forthcoming Osun governorship election, with authorities promising a peaceful and credible electoral process.