The Students’ Union Government (SUG) of Osun State Polytechnic, Iree, has engaged the Nigeria Police over allegations of extortion, harassment and illegal phone searches involving officers along major routes around the institution.
The union, alongside representatives of the institution’s management, paid a courtesy visit to the Area Commander of Police in Ikirun following complaints from students about police conduct along the Ikirun–Iree and Ada–Iree roads.
During the meeting, the Area Commander attributed the heavy police presence in the area to recurring cult-related disturbances, explaining that officers deployed at checkpoints may come from different police divisions and tactical units to maintain security.
He clarified that while officers are legally empowered to stop vehicles and search cars and bags at checkpoints, they are not authorised to search mobile phones or access banking applications, warning that such actions constitute misconduct.
The police authority assured the delegation that the allegations would be investigated and directed the Divisional Police Officer in Iree to commence an immediate probe into reported cases along the Ada–Iree axis.
The development highlights rising concerns among students about the conduct of security operatives around tertiary institutions and the need to balance security operations with the protection of citizens’ rights.
The SUG urged students to remain law-abiding, cooperate with security agencies and report any form of abuse through appropriate channels, as stakeholders continue to push for safer learning environments around campuses.
