Ogun Police Dismiss Report Alleging Criminalisation of Civil Dispute

The Ogun State Police Command has dismissed as misleading a publication titled “Ogun Police, Tenants and the Peril of Criminalising Civil Disputes,” insisting that the matter in question involved allegations of assault and conduct likely to cause breach of peace, and not a tenancy dispute as portrayed.

In a statement by its spokesman, DSP Oluseyi Babaseyi on Wednesday, the Command said the publication circulating on online platforms distorted facts surrounding an incident reported on April 9, 2026, in the Ajuwon area of the state.

According to the police, the case was reported by a family member of a landlord who allegedly became involved in an altercation with tenants over electricity-related issues, resulting in a physical confrontation and a medical incident involving the landlord.

The Command explained that officers followed standard investigative procedures by inviting the parties involved, obtaining statements, and assessing the scene and relevant persons connected to the matter.

It added that the case was handled strictly as a complaint bordering on assault and breach of peace, while all parties were granted administrative bail in line with constitutional provisions and established police procedures.

The police further disclosed that the complainant later withdrew the case formally through a written letter after both parties reportedly reached an amicable resolution.

“For the avoidance of doubt, at no time were any persons unlawfully detained. All police actions taken were strictly within constitutional and procedural limits,” the statement said.

The Command also stated that it had earlier provided clarification to a media organisation that sought its position on the matter, but expressed concern that the eventual publication contained what it described as deliberate misrepresentation and selective interpretation of facts aimed at creating a false narrative.

According to the police, the matter was investigated based on criminal allegations and not as an attempt to enforce tenancy matters through the criminal justice system.

The Ogun State Police Command warned against the deliberate distortion of facts capable of undermining public confidence in lawful policing and due process.

The Command reaffirmed its commitment to professionalism, neutrality, and adherence to the rule of law, urging members of the public to rely on verified information from official police communication channels.