Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has condemned the reported post-election violence in Osun State, calling on security agencies to swiftly arrest those responsible for killings and other acts of violence.

Oyetola, a former governor of the state, made the call in a statement posted on his X handle on Tuesday, expressing concern over the escalating violence and loss of lives in parts of Osun.

He described the attacks as a serious threat to the peace and democratic values of the state, stressing that no political ambition or commercial interest could justify the taking of human lives.

“Politics must be a vehicle for development, not a catalyst for bloodshed,” he said.

Oyetola urged the Osun State Police Command and other security agencies to deploy adequate personnel to volatile areas, restore order and ensure that public spaces were reclaimed from hoodlums.

He also called for the prompt arrest and prosecution of anyone found responsible for killings and other acts of violence.

The former governor appealed to political stakeholders and residents to exercise restraint and resolve disputes through dialogue rather than violence.

His statement followed reports of violence in the state after the governorship election.

On Monday, two people were reportedly feared killed in Ikire following an alleged attempt to take over a motor park at Naira and Kobo Junction.

According to sources, a clash reportedly broke out after drivers linked to the Accord Party allegedly attempted to take control of the park from drivers said to be loyal to the All Progressives Congress.

Oyetola urged all stakeholders to put the peace and development of Osun above political or commercial interests.