Osun Election Violence: Committee Urges Victims to File Claims for Aid

Adewale Egbedun, the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, has urged individuals who suffered from election-related violence during the August 15 Osun governorship election to present their cases to the state's Election Violence Relief Committee (EVRC). Egbedun, who chairs the committee, made this announcement on Thursday during the EVRC's inaugural meeting held within the state.

A statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Olamide Tiamiyu, conveyed that the committee's primary duty is to listen to victims, verify their submissions, and ensure they receive appropriate relief. The speaker also noted that the committee has already commenced the process of gathering complaints from affected persons and reassured them of the Osun State Government's full support under Governor Ademola Adeleke.

Part of the statement read, “Speaking at the maiden meeting of the committee, the Chairman welcomed members and expressed appreciation for accepting to serve at what he described as a critical moment in the history of the state. Egbedun said the assignment of the committee was both humanitarian and sensitive, stressing that its responsibility was to listen to victims, verify genuine claims and ensure that appropriate relief reached those who suffered losses as a result of election-related violence. He assured the public that the committee would discharge its responsibilities fairly, transparently and without prejudice, noting that every submission would be treated with utmost seriousness and decisions would be guided by facts, fairness and compassion.”

The committee also advised victims who are still undergoing medical treatment for injuries sustained during the election period to come forward, ideally through their relatives or representatives, and make their situations known. Upon presentation of such cases, the committee intends to liaise directly with the treating hospitals to ensure victims receive necessary care. Furthermore, the chairman affirmed the government's commitment to cover the approved treatment costs for these victims, their families, and the hospitals involved.

Egbedun extended profound gratitude to the Adeleke Dynasty for its compassionate initiative to support children who lost parents or guardians during the recent election violence. He revealed that the Dynasty, through its Springtime Development Foundation, has pledged to offer scholarships to these children. The Speaker lauded this initiative as a “remarkable demonstration of humanity, compassion and commitment to the welfare of vulnerable families affected by the unfortunate incidents.”

He emphasized that one of the most effective ways to honor the memory of those who perished during the election unrest is through education, by “investing in the future of their children.” This approach, he added, would instill hope in them and enable them to “build a brighter future despite their circumstances.”

Egbedun further stated, “As Chairman of the Election Violence Relief Committee, I commend this initiative and assure the Adeleke Dynasty and the Springtime Development Foundation of the Committee’s appreciation and support in ensuring that the gesture reaches the intended beneficiaries transparently and effectively.” He reiterated the committee's dedication to a transparent and credible relief process, guaranteeing that “genuine victims will not be overlooked.”

According to The PUNCH, Governor Adeleke was declared the winner of the governorship election by INEC's State Returning Officer, Prof Joshua Ogunwole. The report indicated that Adeleke, who contested under the Accord Party banner, secured 511,067 votes, defeating the All Progressives Congress candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, who garnered 444,815 votes.