…pledges payment of medical bills, scholarships
By Taiwo Scholastica
The Election Violence Relief Committee in Osun State has held its inaugural meeting, assuring victims of election-related unrest that the state government is fully prepared to support those who suffered injuries, losses, and other hardships.
The committee, chaired by the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Adewale Olumide Egbedun, convened on Thursday to commence receiving, verifying, and addressing complaints from affected residents.
Speaking at the maiden meeting, Egbedun welcomed the members and commended their willingness to serve on what he described as a critical humanitarian assignment in the state’s history.
He emphasized that the committee’s mandate focuses on listening to victims, establishing genuine claims, and ensuring that appropriate relief reaches those affected.
“Our responsibility is to listen to victims, verify genuine claims, and ensure that appropriate relief reaches those who suffered losses as a result of election-related violence,” Egbedun said.
He assured residents that the committee would operate with fairness, transparency, and compassion.
According to him, while several petitions have already been received and collated, the committee remains open to new submissions from victims and their families.
Egbedun made a special appeal to victims currently receiving hospital treatment for injuries sustained during election-related incidents, urging them to present their cases.
He advised those unable to appear in person to submit their claims through relatives or designated representatives.
The Speaker added that the committee will liaise directly with healthcare facilities to verify the conditions of injured victims, assuring both patients and hospitals that the government remains committed to covering the approved costs of their medical care.
The committee also acknowledged a humanitarian intervention by the Adeleke Dynasty, through the Springtime Development Foundation, which has pledged educational scholarships to children who lost their parents or breadwinners in the violence.
Egbedun described the scholarship initiative as a profound demonstration of empathy that will provide affected children with hope, dignity, and a brighter future.
“Education remains one of the most enduring ways to honor the memories of those who lost their lives. As Chairman of the Election Violence Relief Committee, I commend this initiative and assure the Adeleke Dynasty and the Springtime Development Foundation of our full support in ensuring this gesture reaches the intended beneficiaries transparently and effectively,” Egbedun noted.
Reiterating that no genuine victim will be overlooked, Egbedun urged all affected individuals to step forward with their claims, assuring them of a credible, thorough, and compassionate review process.