The Ilutitun Youth Development Forum has raised alarm over what it described as the indiscriminate arrest and harassment of residents, particularly youths, by security operatives in Ilutitun, Ondo State.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by the Forum’s Publicity Secretary, Similoluwa Akindusoye, the Forum expressed deep concern over reports that police officers have been arresting citizens for merely moving around at night, allegedly on the grounds that such movements could trigger unrest in the community.
The group’s Publicity Secretary, Similoluwa Akindusoye, cited a recent incident last week in which a youth from the community was allegedly embarrassed and harassed by a police officer identified as Abbey. The Forum described the incident as unjustified and provocative, warning that such actions could undermine the long-standing peace enjoyed by the town.
The youth body called on critical stakeholders in Ilutitun, including the Kabiyesi, community leaders and the Divisional Police Officer (DPO), to urgently investigate the matter and put an immediate stop to what it termed “unwarranted intimidation” of law-abiding residents.
According to the statement, the ongoing festive season naturally comes with social activities such as parties, ceremonies and late-night movements, stressing that these should not be misconstrued as security threats.
“Ilutitun is a peaceful town and the youths are committed to maintaining that peace. However, the continued harassment of innocent residents by security operatives risks creating tension where none previously existed,” the Forum stated.
The Ilutitun Youth Development Forum urged the police to adopt community-friendly policing and respect the rights and dignity of residents, while reaffirming its commitment to peace, dialogue and lawful conduct within the community.
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