Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has called for economic sanctions and visa bans against several political figures for allegedly aiding and abetting political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election in his state.
Speaking while receiving a delegation from the British Government in Osogbo on Monday, Governor Adeleke alleged that some political leaders were promoting violence through their supporters, resulting in killings and gun attacks across the state.
The governor commended security agencies for intervening to curb violence but urged them to intensify efforts by arresting all suspects and their alleged sponsors, irrespective of political affiliation. He reiterated that his administration has a zero-tolerance policy towards political violence.
“I have zero tolerance for violence. I have told the Inspector General of Police that if my son is involved, he should be arrested. We harbour no thugs anywhere and the police can and should arrest any suspect. There must be strict law enforcement,” Adeleke said.
According to the governor, “recent incidents of violence, including the reported killing of an Accord Party member in Ijebu-Jesa, underscore the need for stronger action against individuals allegedly sponsoring political unrest in the state.”
Adeleke argued that publicly available statements and actions by some political leaders justified his appeal for international sanctions, saying those found promoting electoral violence should face consequences beyond domestic prosecution.
“We seek visa bans against politicians sponsoring killings and violent attacks. We also advocate similar sanctions against security chiefs aiding and abetting such anti-democratic activities. Election is not about bloodshed. Osun deserves peace and the freedom to choose its leaders,” he said.
Responding, the British delegation, led by Senior Political Adviser Wale Adebajo, said the visit formed part of the United Kingdom’s pre-election peacebuilding engagements in Osun State ahead of the governorship election.
Adebajo said the British Government remained committed to supporting peaceful, credible and transparent elections.
He added that the delegation would engage political parties, government institutions and other stakeholders to encourage a peaceful atmosphere before, during and after the August 15 poll.
The British delegation reiterated its support for a free, fair and peaceful electoral process as preparations for the Osun governorship election continue.
