Adeleke: No Witch-Hunt in Osun Election Violence Probe

The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has said that the Commission of Inquiry set up to look into reports of violence and other unlawful acts before the recent governorship election is not meant to target or punish anyone.

Adeleke explained that the purpose of the commission is to find out the truth, identify those affected, and determine who is responsible based on solid evidence.

He also mentioned that the commission will suggest ways to improve public safety and stop such unlawful actions from happening again in the state.

He shared this information in Osogbo on Wednesday during the launch of the Commission on pre-governorship election violence. He also started a coroner inquest into the killings that took place in Ikire town in Osun State.

Represented by Oluwole Jimi-Bada (SAN), the State Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Adeleke said the Commission was formed because of reports, petitions, and public worries about violence, intimidation, property destruction, illegal weapon use, and other unlawful activities linked to the election.

"The Commission is not to witch-hunt, not set up to persecute any person, political party, candidate, group, public officer or security agency. Elections are the foundation of democracy. Citizens must be able to participate freely and peacefully in the democratic process without fear, intimidation or violence."

He added, "Where allegations of unlawful conduct arise, government has a duty to ensure that the facts are carefully examined and that justice is pursued in accordance with the law."

Adeleke described the creation of the Commission as a clear sign of this administration's dedication to justice, accountability, public order, peace, and the rule of law. He stressed that the Commission is not intended to protect anyone from facing consequences for their actions.

He also pointed out that if there is credible evidence of wrongdoing, the panel will make fair and lawful recommendations.

He urged the Commission to look into the immediate and distant causes of the alleged incidents, find out who was involved when possible, identify those affected, check any property damage, and review the roles of political actors, security agencies, and other stakeholders.

The PUNCH reported that during a state broadcast marking the 35th anniversary of Osun State's creation, Adeleke announced the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry into electoral violence. He stated that it would take memoranda from victims and residents impacted by these incidents.

"Our administration is setting up a Commission of Inquiry on election violence. The body will take memoranda from all victims and residents who are affected by recent electoral violence," he said.

"This initiative is to identify the causes and remedies and proffer ways to stop such recurrence in the future," Adeleke added.