Adeleke seeks visa ban, sanctions against Oyetola, others over political violence in Osun

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has called for international consequences, including visa bans and economic sanctions, against Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Gboyega Oyetola and other political figures. Adeleke alleges their involvement in escalating political violence and killings in the state ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

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We seek visa ban against politicians sponsoring killings and violent attacks. We advocate for similar sanctions against security chiefs aiding and abetting such anti-democratic activities.

During a meeting with a British government delegation, Adeleke specifically named Oyetola, a former governor; Senator Francis Fadahunsi; APC governorship candidate Bola Oyebamijid; and House of Representatives member Wole Oke. He accused them of inciting their supporters, which he claims has resulted in killings and gun attacks across Osun State. The governor did not present evidence to support these allegations, and none of the named individuals have yet responded.

Adeleke emphasized that politicians sponsoring violence should face deterrent measures, stating, "We seek visa ban against politicians sponsoring killings and violent attacks. We advocate for similar sanctions against security chiefs aiding and abetting such anti-democratic activities." He reiterated his administration's zero-tolerance stance on political violence, vowing that security agencies would arrest anyone involved, including his own son, irrespective of their political party.

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Election is not about bloodshed. Osun deserves the peace and freedom to make their choice about who governs them. There must be consequences for those deliberately endangering the lives of our people for selfish political gains.

The governor's appeal follows recent reports of killings in Ilobu and Ijebu-Jesa. Premium Times previously reported the death of a 14-year-old boy, whose father attributed the attack to individuals associated with the APC governorship candidate. The APC has denied any involvement in the incident.

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I have zero tolerance for violence. I have told the Inspector-General of Police that if my son is involved, he should be arrested. We harbour no thugs anywhere and the police can and should arrest any suspect. There must be strict law enforcement.