Why Adeleke Is Pushing For Visa Ban On Oyetola, Wole Oke & Others

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has explained why he is advocating visa restrictions and economic sanctions against some prominent opposition politicians, alleging that such measures would serve as a deterrent against political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.

A statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, said Adeleke made the remarks while receiving a delegation from the British government led by Senior Political Adviser, Wale Adebajo, during a pre-election engagement in Osogbo.

According to the statement, the governor listed former Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, Senator Francis Fadahunsi, Bola Oyebamiji, Hon. Wole Oke and some other political leaders among those he believes should face visa restrictions and economic sanctions over alleged roles in political violence.

The statement said Adeleke commended security agencies for efforts to contain recent violence but urged them to sustain impartial law enforcement by arresting anyone found to have violated the law, regardless of political affiliation.

“I have zero tolerance for violence. I have told the Inspector General of Police that if my son is involved, he should be arrested. I told the world we harbour no thugs anywhere and the police can and should arrest any suspect.

There must be strict law enforcement,” the governor was quoted as saying.

The statement further said the governor renewed his appeal for tougher consequences against individuals found to be sponsoring or encouraging political violence.

“I believe we must have a deterrent against those promoting political violence. We seek visa ban against politicians sponsoring killings and violent attacks. We advocate for similar sanctions against security chiefs aiding and abetting such anti-democratic activities.

“Election is not about bloodshed. Osun deserves the peace and freedom to make their choice about who governs them. There must be consequences for those deliberately endangering the lives of our people for selfish political gains,” he said.

According to the statement, Adeleke also urged security agencies to investigate recent violent incidents in the state and ensure that anyone responsible is brought to justice.

Responding, Adebajo said the British delegation was in Osun as part of ongoing pre-election peacebuilding efforts being undertaken with other partners.

He reaffirmed the British government’s support for a peaceful, transparent and credible electoral process and said the delegation would engage stakeholders across the state to encourage peaceful conduct before, during and after the August 15 governorship election.