By Newspot Nigeria News Desk
The Osun State chapter of the Accord Party has condemned what it described as a police-supported attack on residents in Ede North Local Government Area, following a dispute over a piece of land allegedly belonging to the local government.
In a statement issued on Thursday, March 12, 2026, the party accused officers of the Nigeria Police Force from the Ede North “A” Division of acting in a partisan manner during a confrontation that occurred in the Elerin area near Admus Filling Station.
According to the statement signed by Pastor Victor Babalola Akande, Chairman of Accord in Osun State, the incident began in the early hours of Thursday when Hon. Elliot Adeyemi, described by the party as the APC “Yes/No” chairman, reportedly moved to flag off the construction of a shopping complex on the disputed land.
Accord alleged that the land already had blocks delivered by the Osun State Government for another project, creating tension when preparations began for the new ceremony.
Residents of the area reportedly gathered at the site around 5:00 a.m., questioning the presence of tents and preparations for the event. According to the party, members of the public insisted that if security personnel intended to disperse people from the area, both the residents and APC supporters should be treated equally to demonstrate neutrality.
However, the statement claimed that police officers allegedly dispersed the crowd with tear gas, while APC supporters reportedly threw stones at the gathering.
Accord said the actions of the police created the impression that security operatives were providing protection for APC members, which it said escalated the situation and led to injuries among residents.
The party also alleged that during the confrontation, a motorcyclist was attacked and beaten by an APC supporter identified as Sikiru Akinlade, before other supporters reportedly joined the assault. The victim was later rescued by people at the scene.
Tension reportedly subsided after the Timi of Ede intervened, sending chiefs to the area to help restore calm and prevent further clashes.
Accord expressed concern over the conduct of officers from the Ede North “A” Division, alleging that the Divisional Police Officer, Bamidele Ezekiel Sogo, acted on “orders from above.”
The party said such claims raise serious concerns about political interference in policing in Osun State.
Accord further maintained that the land in dispute belongs to Ede North Local Government, adding that development work had earlier commenced under a previous administration before being halted.
The party called on the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the incident, hold any officers found culpable accountable, and ensure that public confidence in policing is restored.
It also stressed that citizens should not face intimidation or violence for defending what they believe to be community property.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force and APC officials in the state had not issued an official response to the allegations.
— Newspot Nigeria
