Osun set to investigate alleged election-related murders, says Adeleke

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Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has said an independent commission of inquiry will be constituted after the August 15 governorship election to investigate reported cases of extrajudicial killings and other acts of violence recorded during the election period.

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Adeleke disclosed this while addressing journalists in Osogbo on Friday.

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The governor’s speech was, however, read by the state Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi.

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Adeleke, who expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in incidents of violence during the election period, said the commission would be constituted immediately after the poll.

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The governor said, “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.

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“Every life lost is an Osun life. Politics should never cost anyone his or her life, irrespective of political affiliation.

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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.

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“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.”

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He also assured residents that the government would put in place a framework to support and compensate the families of those who lost their lives.

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“The memories of all victims will be appropriately honoured. 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 said.

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PUNCH Online reports that Osun has witnessed several cases of alleged extrajudicial killings in recent months, with suspected cultists believed to be operating under the influence or protection of political actors in the state.

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