The House of Representatives has stepped in to address the escalating security situation in Osun State, resolving to form an ad hoc committee to investigate the recent violence in the region.
This decision follows a motion by Honourable Bamidele Salam, who urged for urgent intervention to prevent further unrest in the state. The House has also directed security agencies to take immediate action to restore peace and security.
The call for intervention comes after a violent clash on Monday that resulted in at least six deaths. The violence was allegedly sparked by a controversial ruling from the Court of Appeal, which reinstated All Progressives Congress (APC)-elected local government chairmen and councillors in Osun State. This ruling has since fueled tensions, with the APC chairmen and councillors seeking to regain control over local government offices, despite being previously removed from office.
The confrontation intensified in key areas such as Oshogbo, the state capital, Ikire, and Irewole local government areas, where violent clashes broke out. Among the victims was Remi Abbas, one of the reinstated chairmen. As the violence continues, both the ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and the opposition APC have been engaged in a blame game, each accusing the other of fueling the conflict.
Speaking during a televised interview, APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, called for a federal intervention, suggesting that the federal government should declare a state of emergency in Osun State. He argued that the situation had reached a critical point, citing reports of violent attacks on innocent residents.
However, Osun State Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, strongly opposed the idea of declaring a state of emergency, accusing the APC of deliberately creating chaos in the state. Alimi rejected Basiru’s claims, insisting that the crisis was being deliberately provoked by APC members. He called for peace and urged the APC to refrain from actions that might escalate tensions.
“We are going to publish the names of our members that have been killed,” Alimi said, disputing the claim of a restored APC administration and reiterating that the PDP was committed to maintaining order and peace in the state.
