Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has announced plans to set up an independent panel to investigate reported killings and other violent incidents linked to the 2026 governorship election.
Adeleke made this known on Friday in Osogbo while addressing journalists ahead of the election scheduled for Saturday, August 15. His address was delivered by the state Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi.
The governor said the inquiry would begin immediately after the election, with the aim of establishing what led to the reported deaths and other acts of violence recorded during the election period.
He expressed sympathy to families who had lost loved ones, saying political differences should not result in the loss of lives.
According to him, the planned commission would examine the circumstances surrounding each reported incident and recommend appropriate steps against anyone found responsible.
Adeleke said the investigation would be carried out without regard to the political party, position or influence of anyone involved.
He also disclosed that the state government would create a support system for families affected by the deaths. The government, he said, would consider ways of assisting and compensating relatives of victims.
The governor said the victims would also be remembered and honoured, adding that the election would eventually end but residents of the state would continue to live together as one community.
Osun has recorded several reports of killings and other violent incidents in the period leading to the governorship election. There have also been allegations that suspected cult groups were being used or protected by political interests in the state.
The planned inquiry is expected to examine such reports and provide findings that could help determine those responsible and prevent similar incidents in the future.