Osun to probe extrajudicial killings after poll – Adeleke

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke announced that an independent commission of inquiry will be formed immediately after the August 15 governorship election to investigate reported cases of extrajudicial killings and other acts of violence that occurred during the election period.

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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.

Speaking in Osogbo, Governor Adeleke, whose speech was read by the state Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, expressed deep condolences to the families of those who lost their lives. He emphasized that every life lost is an Osun life and that political differences should never result in death.

The commission's mandate will be to establish the circumstances surrounding these incidents and recommend appropriate actions to bring all responsible individuals to justice, irrespective of their political affiliation, position, or influence. Governor Adeleke assured residents that the government would also establish a framework to support and compensate the families of those who lost their lives, stating, "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."

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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.

Recent months have seen several alleged extrajudicial killings in Osun State, with suspected cultists reportedly operating under the influence of political actors. The governor's commitment to forming the commission signals a move towards accountability and reconciliation in the state.

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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.