Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has announced plans to establish an independent commission of inquiry to investigate political killings and other acts of violence recorded in the state during the election period.
The governor, in a statement delivered by the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, said the move was aimed at uncovering the circumstances surrounding the incidents and ensuring that those responsible are brought to justice.
Adeleke also commiserated with the families of those who lost their loved ones, stressing that no political ambition should come at the cost of human life.
“Every life lost is an Osun life. Politics should never cost anyone his or her life, irrespective of political affiliation,” the governor said.
He assured residents that the inquiry commission would be constituted on the Monday immediately following the election and would investigate reported cases of killings and violence linked to the electoral period.
According to him, the commission will determine what led to the incidents and recommend appropriate measures to ensure that anyone found culpable faces justice, irrespective of their political affiliation, position or influence.
The governor further disclosed that his administration would establish a support framework for families affected by the violence, including measures to compensate those who lost relatives.
“The Government will also put in place a framework to support and compensate the families of those who lost their lives. The memories of all victims will be appropriately honoured,” he said.
Adeleke urged residents to look beyond the immediate political contest, noting that elections are temporary while the people of Osun must continue to live together.
“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 added.
