Oyetola condemns post-election violence in Osun, demands swift arrest of perpetrators
Former Governor of Osun State, Adegboyega Oyetola, has condemned the reported escalation of post-election violence in parts of the state, calling on security agencies to urgently restore order and bring those responsible for the killings to justice.
Oyetola made the call in a statement issued on Tuesday, expressing concern over the loss of lives and renewed violence following the recent governorship election in the state.
He described the attacks as a threat to the peace and democratic values of Osun, warning that no political interest or commercial dispute was sufficient justification for the killing of any person.
“I condemn these attacks in the strongest terms. Violence against our people is a grave assault on the peace, heritage and democratic values that define our state,” Oyetola said.
He urged the Osun State Police Command and other security agencies to respond decisively to the situation by deploying more personnel to areas considered vulnerable to attacks.
According to him, security agencies must also reclaim public spaces allegedly taken over by hoodlums and ensure that those responsible for the violence are arrested and prosecuted.
“No political ambition, localised transition or commercial interest can ever justify the taking of a human life. Politics must be a vehicle for development, not a catalyst for bloodshed,” he stated.
Oyetola expressed condolences to families who lost relatives in the violence and called on political leaders, community stakeholders and residents to avoid actions capable of escalating tensions.
He urged all parties to pursue dialogue in resolving political and other disputes, stressing that the state’s development should not be compromised by violence.
“I appeal to all stakeholders and citizens to exercise restraint, reject violence and embrace dialogue in resolving disputes. The progress and prosperity of Osun must never be sacrificed for political or commercial interests,” he added.
