The Minister of Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, has condemned the post-election violence witnessed in Osun State, where his All Progressives Congress party lost the governorship election to incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke.

In a statement on Tuesday, Oyetola, a former governor of Osun State, lamented the tragic loss of lives across parts of the state.

According to him, violence against our people is a grave assault on the peace, heritage and democratic values that define our state.

The minister stated that no political ambition, localised transition or commercial interest can ever justify the taking of a human life.

"Politics must be a vehicle for development, not a catalyst for bloodshed.

"I extend my heartfelt condolences to the families who have lost loved ones and urge the Osun State Police Command and all other security agencies to act swiftly and decisively to restore order and protect our people.

"Adequate security personnel should be deployed to volatile areas, public spaces reclaimed from hoodlums, and everyone found responsible for killings and other acts of violence promptly apprehended and brought to justice.

"I appeal to all stakeholders and citizens to exercise restraint, reject violence and embrace dialogue in resolving disputes. The progress and prosperity of Osun must never be sacrificed for political or commercial interests," he said.

ASA