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Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has issued an Executive Order establishing a Coroner Inquest/Panel of Inquiry to investigate the violent clashes, killings, and shootings that occurred on August 24, 2026, at the Naira and Kobo Junction Motor Park in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area.
The violence resulted in two deaths and left police officers injured.
Following the clash, a suspect arrested for snatching a police rifle, Sikiru Adesoji, alleged that Senator Akogun Lere was his “boss.”
The senator has denied any involvement and called for an independent investigation.
According to a statement issued on Sunday by the Governor’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the Executive Order takes effect on August 31, 2026.
The panel is tasked with investigating the circumstances surrounding the violence, identifying victims, determining immediate and remote causes, and establishing criminal responsibility.
Magistrate Ayokunle Shiyanbola will chair the panel, with Mr Abiodun Badiora serving as Secretary. Other members include retired AIG Dr Aderanti C. Kayode, Mr Dele Akintayo, a representative from the Nigerian Bar Association, Comrade Wale Balogun representing civil society organisations, a representative from the Ikire community, and medical/forensic expert Dr Babatunde Afolabi.
The panel is mandated to examine the role of security operatives, determining whether the use of live ammunition met legal, operational and human rights standards.
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The panel is to identify any individuals, security personnel, political figures, transport union members or public officials whose actions or omissions contributed to the clash.
The statement tasked the panel to recommend criminal prosecution, disciplinary measures, victim compensation and institutional reforms to prevent future incidents.
To carry out its duties, the panel has the authority to summon witnesses, subpoena police and medical records, inspect the crime scene and implement witness protection measures.
Governor Adeleke has directed security agencies to preserve all relevant evidence, including firearms, station diaries, communication logs, duty rosters and autopsy reports.
Additionally, the state government has requested that the Inspector-General of Police, the Police Service Commission and the Osun State Commissioner of Police take administrative action regarding any officers whose continued presence might prejudice the inquiry.
The panel is expected to begin sitting within seven days of its inauguration and submit a final report within 30 days of its first session.
Inviting eyewitnesses, transport workers, medical personnel and the public to submit memoranda, Governor Adeleke assured citizens that the inquiry will be fair and transparent, emphasising that no culpable party will be shielded regardless of status or political affiliation.
