Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has condemned the killing of a 14-year-old boy in Ilobu, describing the incident as a disturbing example of alleged complicity by the state police command in politically motivated violence.
In a statement issued on Monday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor expressed deep sorrow over the incident and accused the police of failing to act decisively to prevent the killing.
Adeleke alleged that the teenager was killed by a known political thug linked to the All Progressives Congress (APC), who reportedly operated in a vehicle marked with “AMBO” branding.
He extended condolences to the bereaved family and called for the immediate arrest and prosecution of those responsible for the killing.
The governor further expressed concern over what he described as a growing pattern of partisan behaviour by the Osun State Police Command, accusing officers of protecting individuals linked to political violence.
According to him, there have been repeated cases where armed political actors move freely in communities without intervention from security agencies, despite reports of intimidation and violence.
He also alleged that some police officers have been seen accompanying suspected political thugs during operations, a situation he described as alarming and unacceptable.
Adeleke claimed that his administration had repeatedly petitioned the Inspector General of Police and the Presidency over rising insecurity and alleged misconduct by the police in the state.
He also criticised the deployment of mobile police officers to local government secretariats allegedly occupied by court-sacked APC officials, arguing that it prevents duly elected officials from accessing their offices.
Describing the development as an abuse of state power, the governor warned that continued disregard for due process and democratic institutions could heighten public tension.
He urged the Federal Government to urgently intervene, stressing that failure to enforce the rule of law could push citizens toward self-help.
Adeleke reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to peace and democratic governance, insisting that all actors must respect the constitution, electoral laws and judicial rulings.