The Ogun State Police Command has dismissed reports alleging that the Awujale Palace in Ijebu-Ode was under siege by thugs or miscreants.
The Command said police personnel were present at the palace strictly to maintain law and order.
In a statement on Wednesday, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi, said the deployment was a preventive security measure aimed at safeguarding lives and property and forestalling any breakdown of public peace.
Babaseyi added that an Assistant Commissioner of Police was deployed to oversee the security arrangement at the palace in order to ensure effective supervision and operational coordination.
The command also clarified that Chief Adebisi Adaran, popularly known as Gbenden, was invited following 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 command said the invitation was part of a legitimate investigative process and should not be misconstrued as an indication of guilt.
“The Police remain professional and impartial in the discharge of their statutory responsibilities, guided by the rule of law and respect for the rights of all individuals,”the statement added.
Members of the public were advised to remain calm, disregard misleading reports and refrain from circulating unverified information capable of generating tension or disturbing public peace.
The Command reiterated its commitment to the protection of lives and property, preservation of public order and impartial enforcement of the law across Ogun State.
No siege at Awujale Palace - Police clarify deployment, invitation of Gbenden