Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has unveiled support measures for families affected by violence during the electoral process in the state.
Adeleke, who received his certificate of return on Wednesday used the opportunity to strike a conciliatory tone, telling residents that the document represents a renewed commitment to serve rather than a personal triumph.
He told the gathering that the certificate belongs to workers, traders, youths, and traditional and religious leaders across the state rather than to him alone, expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him.
He acknowledged, however, that the victory came at a painful cost, with citizens injured, property destroyed, and lives lost during the campaign period.
Naming several victims of the violence, including Ezekiel Olapade, Aderogba Ajayi, Remi Abbas, and Kolade Eluyera, the governor said their families’ grief transcends political lines and pledged that they would not be forgotten as mere figures.
As part of the response, the Adeleke family’s Springtime Development Foundation will fund full scholarships through university level for the children and dependents of those killed.
Separately, the state government is setting up a N500 million endowment fund to assist verified victims, with a Verification and Relief Committee, led by Assembly Speaker, Adewale Olumide, tasked with identifying beneficiaries and distributing aid fairly, regardless of political ties, religion, ethnicity, gender, or social standing.
Adeleke framed the initiative as a matter of humanitarian duty rather than politics, saying that grief recognises no party lines. He also sought to reassure voters who backed his opponent, describing himself as governor for all residents and calling for the state to be placed above partisan divisions.
Looking ahead, the governor pledged continued investment in infrastructure, health care, education, workers’ welfare and youth programs, promising greater transparency and accountability as he begins his new term.
He closed by asking for prayers for the families of victims and the injured, saying celebration of the win would give way to renewed work starting immediately.
