Osun Governor Orders Probe into Killings, Seeks Inquiry into Police Role

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has launched a formal investigation into the violence and killings that occurred at the Naira and Kobo Junction in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area. The governor established a Coroner Inquest and Panel of Inquiry through an Executive Order to thoroughly examine the events of August 24.

The panel's mandate includes determining the precise circumstances surrounding the shootings and deaths, identifying all victims, and establishing the immediate and remote causes of the violence. Crucially, it will seek to ascertain who bears criminal responsibility for the fatalities. The inquiry is empowered to summon witnesses, demand relevant records, and inspect the incident scene.

Chaired by judicial officer Ayokunle Shiyanbola, the panel comprises a diverse group of members, including retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police Aderanti Kayode, representatives from the Nigerian Bar Association and civil society organizations, a community representative from Ikire, and a medical and forensic expert. This composition aims to ensure a comprehensive and impartial investigation.

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The panel is mandated to determine the circumstances leading to the shootings and killings, examine the role of security operatives, establish whether live ammunition or other weapons were used and whether their use complied with the law, rules of engagement and human rights standards.

Governor Adeleke stressed that the panel will specifically examine the role of security operatives. It will investigate whether live ammunition or other weapons were used and if their deployment complied with legal standards, rules of engagement, and human rights principles. The inquiry can identify individuals or groups, including security personnel, political actors, or public officials, whose actions or omissions may have contributed to the incident.

Following the violence, which the Osun State Police Command confirmed resulted in two civilian deaths and three police injuries, the governor directed the preservation of all relevant evidence. The Executive Order, effective August 31, grants the panel the power to recommend prosecution, disciplinary actions, compensation for victims, and institutional reforms to prevent future occurrences. The Inspector-General of Police and other police oversight bodies have been requested to take interim administrative measures regarding any police officer whose continued command might prejudice the inquiry or public confidence.

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It is also empowered to identify any individual, group, security personnel, political actor, transport union member, public official or other person whose action or omission may have contributed to the incident.