Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has pledged to heal divisions arising from the recent governorship election and pursue a more inclusive administration as the state marks its 35th anniversary.

Adeleke made the commitment in a state broadcast on Thursday, acknowledging the deaths, injuries and disruptions linked to the electoral crisis. He said the events had tested Osun’s democratic values while commending residents for participating in the electoral process despite the challenges.

“I promise to heal the wounds, unite the people and uphold equity and fairness,” Adeleke said.

He announced the establishment of a Commission of Inquiry into the recent electoral violence. According to the governor, the commission will receive memoranda from victims and other affected residents, investigate the causes of the violence and recommend measures to prevent a recurrence.

Adeleke also announced an election victims’ compensation fund to be headed by the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun.

The governor urged residents to avoid reprisals and remain law-abiding, stressing the need for peace as the state moves beyond the election.

He praised voters for turning out despite the violence, saying their decision to defend their votes demonstrated their commitment to democracy.

Looking ahead, Adeleke pledged to build on his administration’s programmes in infrastructure, education, healthcare, sports, agricultural mechanisation and the digital economy. He also promised greater attention to industrialisation, workers’ welfare, rural development, financial inclusion and poverty reduction.

“As we celebrate the anniversary… I seek your continued cooperation to further deliver good governance,” Adeleke said.