OYETOLA CALLS FOR CALM, JUSTICE AFTER OSUN POST-ELECTION VIOLENCE

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has condemned the violence and loss of lives reported in parts of Osun State following the recently concluded governorship election. He urged political actors, security agencies and residents to reject violence and pursue dialogue as a means of resolving disputes.

Oyetola, a former governor of the state, described the attacks on residents as a serious threat to the peace and democratic values of Osun. He said no political ambition or commercial interest should be considered important enough to justify the loss of human lives.

In a statement issued by his Special Adviser, Dr Bolaji Akinola, the minister appealed to all stakeholders to exercise restraint and avoid actions capable of further escalating tensions across the state. He stressed that political activities should contribute to development rather than become a source of violence and division.

The former governor also called on the Osun State Police Command and other security agencies to take decisive steps to restore order in areas affected by the unrest. He urged authorities to deploy adequate personnel to vulnerable locations and protect residents and public spaces from further attacks.

Oyetola further demanded that individuals responsible for the killings and other acts of violence be identified, arrested and prosecuted in accordance with the law. He maintained that accountability would be necessary to deter future acts of political violence and reassure residents of their safety.

He appealed to political leaders and their supporters to embrace dialogue and peaceful engagement in the aftermath of the election. According to him, Osun's political differences should not be allowed to undermine the security and wellbeing of its people.