Adeleke To Set Up Commission To Probe Osun Election Killings, Violence

Osun State governor, Ademola Adeleke, has announced plans to constitute an independent commission of inquiry to investigate reported cases of extrajudicial killings and other acts of violence recorded during the ongoing election period.

Adeleke made the announcement while addressing journalists in Osogbo on Friday. However, his speech was delivered by the state Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi.

The governor said the commission would be constituted immediately after the August 15 governorship election and would investigate all reported killings and acts of violence linked to the electoral period.

He expressed condolences to the families of victims of election-related violence, stressing that political differences should not lead to loss of lives.

Adeleke said, “The Osun State Government expresses its deepest condolences to the families of all persons who have tragically lost their lives in incidents of violence during this election period.

“Every life lost is an Osun life. Politics should never cost anyone his or her life, irrespective of political affiliation.”

The governor assured residents that the commission would investigate the circumstances surrounding the reported incidents and recommend appropriate measures to ensure that those responsible face justice.

He said the investigation would be conducted without regard to political affiliation, position or influence.

Adeleke stated, “The government under my watch wishes to assure the people of Osun State that next week Monday, immediately after the election, an Independent Commission of Inquiry will be constituted to investigate all reported killings and acts of violence connected with this election period.

“The commission will establish the circumstances surrounding these incidents and recommend appropriate actions to ensure that everyone responsible is brought to justice, regardless of political affiliation, position or influence.”

The governor also disclosed that his administration would establish a framework to support and compensate families who lost loved ones in the incidents.

He said the victims would be appropriately honoured, while urging residents to preserve the unity and peace of the state beyond the election.

“The election will come and go, but we will remain one people. We owe the dead justice, their families compassion, and the people of Osun a peaceful future,” he said.

Osun has recorded several reported cases of extrajudicial killings in recent months, amid allegations of the activities of suspected cult groups.

Some of the suspected cultists have also been alleged to operate under the influence or protection of political actors in the state.