Osun Tensions Rise as Governor Adeleke Condemns Alleged Political Attacks, Calls for Immediate Security Intervention
Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke, has strongly condemned a series of violent attacks allegedly carried out by political thugs in several parts of the state, describing the incidents as a dangerous threat to peace, democracy, and public safety.
In a statement issued following reports of unrest in Ile-Ife, Ede, Osogbo, and other locations across Osun State, the governor expressed deep concern over what he described as coordinated attacks that left several residents injured and heightened tensions within affected communities.
Governor Adeleke stressed that no political ambition or contest for power should come at the expense of the lives, safety, and well-being of innocent citizens. He warned against the growing trend of political violence, noting that such actions undermine democratic principles and threaten the stability of the state.
The governor called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other relevant security authorities to urgently intervene in the situation. He urged federal security agencies to take proactive steps to prevent further escalation and ensure that all parties involved in the alleged provocations are brought under control before the state is plunged into chaos.
According to Adeleke, the security and welfare of Osun residents remain his administration’s highest priority. Following reports of the attacks, the governor personally visited some of the affected areas to assess the situation firsthand and offer support to victims.
During the visits, he met with injured individuals receiving medical treatment at the Osun State Teaching Hospital in Osogbo and the Cottage Hospital in Ede. He also paid a solidarity visit to the Chairman of the Accord Party in Osogbo, who reportedly survived a gunshot attack in a separate incident that occurred last week.
The governor expressed sympathy to all those affected by the violence and extended his condolences to families dealing with the consequences of the attacks. He assured victims that the state government would not abandon them during this difficult period and would continue to provide the necessary support and assistance.
As part of efforts to restore public confidence and maintain order, Adeleke announced that he had directed security agencies to carry out thorough investigations into the incidents. He emphasized that every individual found culpable, regardless of social status, political affiliation, or influence, must be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.
He further reiterated that political disagreements should never degenerate into violence, intimidation, harassment, or attacks on citizens exercising their constitutional rights. According to him, democracy can only flourish in an atmosphere where dialogue, tolerance, mutual respect, and adherence to the rule of law are upheld.
Political observers have repeatedly warned about the dangers of election-related violence in Nigeria, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of future electoral contests. Security experts have also emphasized the need for political stakeholders to promote peaceful engagement and discourage supporters from resorting to acts capable of destabilizing communities.
Governor Adeleke therefore appealed to residents across Osun State to remain calm, peaceful, and law-abiding despite the tense atmosphere. He disclosed that additional security measures are being activated in vulnerable locations to prevent further disturbances and safeguard lives and property.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to preserving peace and ensuring that Osun State remains a secure environment for all residents, irrespective of political affiliation, ethnicity, or religious background.
He concluded by offering prayers for those injured in the attacks, expressing hope for their speedy recovery while calling on all stakeholders to work together in protecting the peace, unity, and progress of the state.
“May God grant quick healing to the injured and continue to preserve the peace and harmony of our beloved Osun State,” the governor stated.
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