OSOGBO, NIGERIA — The Osun State Government has declared that it will not shield anyone involved in the recent killings linked to the leadership tussle within the National Union of Road Transport Workers and cult-related violence in the state, vowing that all perpetrators will face the full weight of the law.
The Special Adviser to Governor Ademola Adeleke on Security Matters, Mr. Tunde Olawale, made the declaration on Wednesday during a security briefing in Osogbo. He said the state government had received reports of renewed clashes between rival factions of the NURTW and suspected cult groups in some parts of the state, resulting in the loss of lives and property.
“The governor has directed that no stone be left unturned in bringing those responsible for these senseless killings to justice. Osun State will not be a safe haven for criminals, and we will not shield anyone, no matter how highly placed, who is found to be involved in these acts,” Olawale stated.
The governor’s aide disclosed that the government had deployed additional security personnel to flashpoints and had ordered the arrest of anyone found to be instigating or participating in the violence. He also said the government was working with the leadership of the NURTW and other stakeholders to resolve the leadership crisis peacefully.
“We are engaging with the leadership of the NURTW to find a lasting solution to their internal crisis. But let me be clear: anyone who takes the law into their own hands, no matter the grievance, will be arrested and prosecuted,” he said.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed that several arrests had been made in connection with the recent killings, and that investigations were ongoing. The Command’s spokesperson, SP Yemisi Opalola, said the police had recovered weapons and other items from the suspects, and that they would be charged to court upon the conclusion of investigations.
“We have arrested some suspects, and we are still searching for others. We appeal to members of the public to provide useful information that will lead to the arrest of those at large,” Opalola said.
The recent killings have sparked concern among residents of Osun State, with many calling on the government to take decisive action to restore peace and security. Community leaders and traditional rulers have also called for calm and urged the youth to shun violence.
The Chairman of the Osun State chapter of the NURTW, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the union was working with security agencies to resolve the crisis and to identify those behind the violence. He appealed to members of the union to remain peaceful and to allow the law to take its course.
The Osun State Government has also announced plans to strengthen security architecture, including the establishment of a community policing framework and the provision of vehicles and equipment for security agencies. The governor’s aide said the government was committed to ensuring the safety of all residents.
“The governor has made it clear that his administration will not tolerate any form of violence or criminality. We are working with all stakeholders to ensure that peace returns to our state,” Olawale said.
As the investigation continues, residents are hopeful that the government’s firm stance will deter further violence and bring the perpetrators to justice. For now, security has been beefed up in flashpoints across the state, and the government has assured residents of their safety.
