Adeleke Demands Justice Over Esa-Oke Killing, Family Accuses Political Thugs of Murder

OSOGBO — Governor Ademola Adeleke on Wednesday visited Esa-Oke in Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State to commiserate with the family of an Accord Party youth leader, Aderogba, who was recently killed in circumstances that have heightened political tensions in the state.

During the visit, the governor condemned what he described as a growing pattern of politically motivated violence and called on security agencies to ensure that those responsible for the killing are brought to justice.

Speaking before the governor and community members, the widow of the deceased, Mrs. Tolulope Aderogba, alleged that individuals she identified as political associates and suspected thugs linked to the All Progressives Congress (APC) were involved in her husband's death.

According to her account, the deceased had been approached by Fakunle Oladapo, a youth leader in the community, who allegedly conveyed an invitation from a personal aide to Hon. Wole Oke. She claimed her husband declined the invitation, insisting that he would neither leave the Accord Party nor align himself politically with the federal lawmaker.

Mrs. Aderogba further alleged that while discussions were ongoing, a vehicle conveying armed men arrived at the scene. She said the attackers opened fire on her husband before subjecting him to further assault, resulting in injuries from which he later died.

The widow stated that the incident occurred in the presence of family members and urged authorities to conduct a thorough investigation.

Addressing residents and party supporters during the condolence visit, Governor Adeleke criticised the handling of recent security incidents in the state, alleging that law enforcement authorities had not acted decisively against individuals accused of political violence.

The governor disclosed that reports and video evidence relating to various attacks had been forwarded to the Inspector-General of Police, urging the police hierarchy to review the security architecture in Osun State.

Adeleke also called on traditional rulers, political leaders and stakeholders across party lines to denounce violence and promote peaceful political engagement ahead of future electoral activities.

While expressing sympathy to the bereaved family, the governor pledged support for the deceased's children and immediate relatives, describing the killing as "one death too many."

He urged residents to remain peaceful and law-abiding while allowing security agencies to carry out their constitutional responsibilities.

The incident has been reported to the police, while investigations are expected to continue.

Governor Adeleke was accompanied on the visit by senior government officials and political leaders from across the state.