…Advocacy Group Urges Swift Action, Neutral Policing Ahead of August 15 Election
The Advocacy for Good Governance in Nigeria, TAGGIN, has called for a comprehensive and impartial investigation into recent violent attacks that injured several residents across Osun State amid heightened political tension.
In a statement issued Thursday, the civil society group condemned reported shootings and assaults in Ile-Ife, Ede, Osogbo and Owode-Ede. The incidents earlier this week left residents fearful and several people hospitalized.
TAGGIN described the violence as “unacceptable and a direct threat to peace and democratic stability in Osun State.” The group urged security agencies to act swiftly and without political bias.
“The people of Osun deserve to live without fear of politically motivated thuggery or orchestrated violence,” TAGGIN stated.
“We call on the Osun State Police Command, other security agencies and relevant authorities to conduct a thorough, transparent investigation to identify, arrest and prosecute all perpetrators, regardless of political affiliation or status.”
The attacks have triggered blame exchanges between Governor Ademola Adeleke’s administration and the All Progressives Congress, APC. Governor Adeleke accused suspected APC thugs of coordinated attacks on residents and Accord party members. The APC has denied involvement and made counter-allegations.
Police authorities have confirmed investigations are ongoing and security has been reinforced in affected areas.
TAGGIN, a leading advocacy organization promoting transparency, accountability and good governance, warned that such violence undermines public trust and threatens the credibility of the forthcoming election.
The group also urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and federal security agencies to ensure justice is served and Osun remains peaceful.
TAGGIN further called on all political actors to prioritize dialogue and the rule of law over violence, cautioning that failure to address root causes could trigger wider instability.
Signed:
The Advocacy for Good Governance in Nigeria, TAGGIN
