Six Killed in Osun Crisis Following Controversial Court Ruling
At least six people have been killed in Osun State following unrest triggered by a controversial Court of Appeal ruling allegedly reinstating All Progressives Congress (APC)-elected local government chairmen and councillors.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed the death toll to Channels Television on Tuesday, with the Command’s spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, stating that those injured are receiving medical treatment at various hospitals across the state.
On Sunday, Governor Ademola Adeleke raised the alarm, alleging a political conspiracy led by the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, alongside some security agency heads to enforce the ruling. He called on the public to hold Oyetola and state security chiefs responsible for any violence that might follow.
IGP Deploys Tactical Squads
In response to the escalating crisis, Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun has ordered the immediate deployment of additional tactical squads to Osun State to reinforce security and restore law and order.
In a statement by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the IGP strongly condemned the violence, vowing to bring all perpetrators to justice.
“These violent actions have disrupted peace, led to destruction of property, and caused the unfortunate loss of innocent lives.”
The police emphasized that violence undermines democracy and threatens citizens' well-being, pledging to identify and prosecute those responsible.
The IGP issued a strong warning to individuals and groups instigating violence, stating that the Force will not tolerate lawlessness, hooliganism, or anarchy in Osun State.
"The perpetrators of these criminal acts will be fished out and made to face the consequences of their actions. Citizens must remain calm as normalcy is being restored."
The police further urged Osun indigenes, leaders, and stakeholders to shun violence and continue their lawful activities as security forces work to stabilize the situation.
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