Osun poll violence: Committee invites victims for relief claims

The Osun State Election Violence Relief Committee, chaired by the Speaker of the state House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, on Thursday called on victims of election-related violence in the state to submit their cases for consideration.

A statement signed by the Press Secretary to the Speaker, Olamide Tiamiyu, said Egbedun disclosed this at the maiden meeting of the committee.

Egbedun, who expressed appreciation to the members for accepting to serve on the committee, said the assignment was both humanitarian and sensitive.

The Speaker stressed that it was the responsibility of the committee to listen to victims, verify genuine claims and ensure that appropriate relief reached those who suffered losses as a result of election-related violence.

He assured the public that the committee would discharge its responsibilities fairly, transparently and without prejudice, noting that “every submission would be treated with utmost seriousness and decisions will be guided by facts, fairness and compassion.”

According to him, some complaints had already been received and collated, adding that the committee “will be ready to receive more petitions from the victims.”

Egbedun particularly appealed “to persons still receiving treatment in hospitals as a result of injuries sustained during the election-related incidents to come forward, preferably through their relatives or representatives, and make their cases known to the committee.”

He assured that where such cases were brought before the committee, it would liaise with the hospitals concerned to establish the condition of the victims and ensure that they received the necessary medical attention.

The chairman further assured the victims, their families and the hospitals involved that the government remained committed to taking responsibility for the approved cost of their treatment.

Describing the initiative as a remarkable demonstration of humanity, compassion and commitment to the welfare of vulnerable families affected by the unfortunate incidents, he noted that education remained one of the most enduring ways of honouring the memories of those who lost their lives.

He added that investing in the future of their children would provide them with hope, dignity and an opportunity to build a brighter future despite their circumstances.

The PUNCH reports that Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, unveiled the Committee on Election Violence Victims to verify claims by persons affected by election-related violence in the state.

The committee will also oversee the disbursement of the N500m Election Violence Victims Relief Endowment Fund provided by the state government.

A statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, obtained in Osogbo, said the committee, chaired by Egbedun, would undertake a transparent and credible verification process to establish genuine claims and ensure that relief reached deserving victims.