Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has condemned a wave of violent attacks that reportedly occurred in several parts of the state, accusing political thugs allegedly linked to the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating the unrest.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Adeleke described the attacks in Ile-Ife, Ede, Osogbo and other communities as coordinated acts of violence capable of threatening the peace and stability of the state.
He stressed that no political objective should come at the expense of innocent lives.
The governor appealed to President Bola Tinubu and top security officials to intervene urgently to prevent further escalation.
He specifically called on the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, the Department of State Services, and other security agencies to take immediate action.
Adeleke also urged former Osun State Governor, Gboyega Oyetola, and the APC governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, to caution their supporters against actions that could fuel tension across the state.
According to the governor, unchecked provocations and violence could plunge Osun into chaos, warning that political disagreements should not be allowed to undermine public safety and democratic values.
Following reports of the attacks, Adeleke said he personally visited affected communities and met victims 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 recently survived a gun attack.
The governor expressed sympathy for those injured and their families, assuring them that his administration would provide support during the difficult period.
He further disclosed that security agencies had been directed to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the incidents and ensure that all individuals found culpable are prosecuted, irrespective of their political affiliations or social status.
Adeleke maintained that democracy can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace, dialogue and respect for the rule of law, stressing that violence, intimidation and attacks on citizens exercising their constitutional rights have no place in a democratic society.
He called on residents to remain calm, peaceful and law-abiding while security agencies work to restore order.
The governor added that additional security measures had been activated in vulnerable locations across the state as part of efforts to safeguard lives and property.
Adeleke also prayed for the speedy recovery of those injured and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to maintaining peace and security throughout Osun State.
