Adeleke condemns political violence in Osun, calls for federal security intervention

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has denounced a wave of violent attacks reported across several parts of the state, describing the incidents as a dangerous threat to peace and democratic governance.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, the governor alleged that armed political thugs carried out coordinated assaults in communities including Ile-Ife, Ede, Osogbo and other locations, resulting in injuries and heightened tension among residents.

The governor stated that the attacks were unacceptable and warned that political competition should never descend into violence and intimidation.

“No political objective is worth the loss of lives, pain, and suffering inflicted on innocent citizens. Democracy must not be reduced to a battlefield where political disagreements are settled through violence,” the governor stated.

He appealed to President Bola Tinubu and key security authorities, including the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Department of State Services (DSS), to urgently intervene and prevent a further breakdown of law and order in the state.

Adeleke also called on prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, including former Governor Gboyega Oyetola and the party’s governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, to prevail on their supporters to embrace peace and refrain from actions capable of escalating tensions.

According to him, continued acts of provocation and violence could undermine the stability the state has enjoyed in recent years.

Following reports of the attacks, the governor said he personally visited affected communities and hospitals where victims were receiving treatment. He also paid a solidarity visit to the chairman of the Accord Party in Osogbo, who reportedly survived a recent gun attack.

“I have met with victims receiving medical attention and reassured them that the government will stand by them during this difficult period. No citizen should suffer because of political differences,” he said.

Adeleke further directed security agencies to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incidents and ensure that those responsible are identified and prosecuted, irrespective of their political affiliations or social status.

He stressed that the rule of law must prevail and that anyone found culpable should face the full weight of the law.

The governor urged residents to remain calm, avoid retaliation, and continue with their lawful activities, assuring them that additional security deployments had been ordered in vulnerable areas to forestall further violence.

“Political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, lawful engagement, and democratic processes. Violence has no place in our society,” he added.

He expressed sympathy to those injured in the attacks and prayed for their speedy recovery, while reaffirming his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and the peace of Osun State.

Adeleke condemns political violence in Osun, calls for federal security intervention