Gunmen suspected to be political thugs have killed Kolade Eluyera, the son of the Accord Party Women Leader in Irewole Local Government Area of Osun State. The incident has sparked outrage and calls for a thorough investigation.
Police Confirm Killing
The spokesperson for the Osun State Police Command, Abiodun Ojelabi, confirmed the incident. He stated that Kolade's lifeless body was recovered in Ikire, with gunshot wounds found on the deceased. “Investigation is on and the Commissioner of Police has deployed more men to the area. We are working with those who brought the corpse to get more information,” Ojelabi said.
Accord Party Alleges Security Lapses
However, a party chieftain, Olajengbesi, insisted that the incident occurred “after several complaints, security reports, and intelligence alerts had earlier been lodged at the Divisional Police Headquarters in Ikire and the Office of the Area Commander concerning alleged kidnapping, abduction, violent intimidation, harassment, and coordinated attacks targeted at members of the Accord Party in Irewole Local Government, yet no visible, preventive, or decisive law enforcement action was taken to forestall the escalation of violence now culminating in the unfortunate loss of human life.”
He further stated, “What is unfolding in Osun State is becoming dangerously alarming, condemnable, and a direct threat to constitutional democracy, public peace, and political freedom.” Olajengbesi condoled the family of the deceased, the leadership of the Accord Party, and others affected by the incident.
Security Concerns Raised
Alleging continued silence and slow response from security agencies despite repeated reports of politically motivated violence, Olajengbesi said the situation was raising serious legal, moral, and security concerns among residents, political stakeholders, and the wider public.
“We understand that the growing frustration within the Osun APC stems largely from the overwhelming rejection the party continues to suffer among the people of Osun State, having failed completely to present any convincing alternative programme, credible policy direction, or meaningful governance blueprint capable of inspiring public confidence,” the statement read. “The people of Osun State have continued to openly identify with and support the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke because of its visible performance and people-oriented governance.”
Call for Independent Investigation
Olajengbesi called on the Inspector-General of Police, the Department of State Services, and other security agencies to commence an independent investigation into the killing. The incident has heightened tensions in the state, with many calling for justice and an end to political violence.
