Adeleke sets up panel to probe Osun killings

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has established a Coroner Inquest and Panel of Inquiry to investigate the killings and violence that occurred at Naira and Kobo Junction, Motor Park/Garage Area, Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area.

The incident, which occurred on August 24, 2026, reportedly involved shootings, deaths, injuries and violence.

A statement issued on Saturday by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, said the Executive Order establishing the panel would take effect on August 31.

The panel, headed by Magistrate Ayokunle Shiyanbola, is expected to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, establish the number and identities of victims and investigate the immediate and remote causes of the violence.

It will also examine the role of security operatives, including whether live ammunition or other weapons were used and whether their use complied with the law, rules of engagement and human rights standards.

The panel is empowered to investigate whether the actions or omissions of individuals or groups contributed to the incident and identify any security personnel, political actors, transport union members, public officials or other persons who may have played a role.

The government said the inquiry could recommend prosecution, disciplinary action, compensation for victims and institutional reforms to prevent a recurrence.

The panel will have powers to summon witnesses, demand police and medical records, inspect the scene and other relevant locations, receive oral and documentary evidence and recommend measures to protect witnesses and other persons at risk of intimidation or retaliation.

Adeleke also directed the preservation of firearms, ammunition records, police station diaries, communication logs, incident reports, duty rosters, medical and autopsy records, photographs, videos and other evidence relevant to the investigation.

The Executive Order further provides for the protection of witnesses and families of victims, the collection of medical and forensic evidence and measures to maintain peace in Ikire while the inquiry is ongoing.

The Inspector-General of Police, Police Service Commission and Osun State Commissioner of Police have also been asked to take appropriate interim administrative measures concerning any police officer whose continued operational command could prejudice the inquiry or undermine public confidence.

Magistrate Shiyanbola will serve as chairman, while Abiodun Badiora will be secretary.

Other members include retired AIG Aderanti C. Kayode, Dele Akintayo, a representative of the Nigerian Bar Association, Comrade Wale Balogun representing civil society organisations, an Ikire community representative and Dr Babatunde Afolabi as medical/forensic representative.

The panel is expected to begin sitting within seven days of its inauguration and submit its report within 30 days of its first sitting, subject to any extension approved by the governor.

The government has invited victims’ families, eyewitnesses, journalists, transport workers, police officers, medical personnel, civil society groups, political parties, community leaders and other stakeholders with relevant information to submit memoranda and evidence.

Adeleke assured residents and the families of those killed and injured that the inquiry would be conducted fairly and transparently.

He also said anyone found culpable would face justice regardless of their position, influence, political connections or institutional affiliation.

The government, however, stressed that all allegations would remain allegations until established through credible evidence before the panel.