Oyetola condemns post-election violence in Osun

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Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has condemned the reported post-election violence in Osun State, calling on security agencies to swiftly arrest those responsible for killings and other acts of violence.

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Oyetola, a former governor of the state, made the call in a statement posted on his X handle on Tuesday.

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He said he was “deeply concerned” by the escalating violence and loss of lives in parts of the state.

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“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

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“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 said.

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He expressed condolences to families who lost loved ones and urged the Osun State Police Command and other security agencies to act swiftly to restore order.

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“Adequate security personnel should be deployed to volatile areas, public spaces reclaimed from hoodlums, and everyone found responsible for killings and other acts of violence promptly apprehended and brought to justice,” Oyetola said.

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He also appealed to stakeholders and residents to exercise restraint and resolve disputes through dialogue.

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“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 said.

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Oyetola’s statement came amid reports of violence in the state following the governorship election.

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On Monday, two people were feared killed in Ikire after an alleged attempt to take over a motor park at Naira and Kobo Junction.

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Sources told PUNCH Online that drivers allegedly loyal to the All Progressives Congress had been in control of the park before some drivers said to be members of the Accord Party arrived and allegedly attempted to take it over.n

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The incident reportedly resulted in a clash, during which two people were feared killed.

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