The spokesman of the World Bishops Council (WBC), Africa chapter, Bishop Seun Adeoye, has appealed to politicians in Osun State to embrace peace and stop causing unnecessary tension among the citizenry.

In a statement issued in Osogbo on Monday, the bishop expressed regret that, just a few weeks after the killings of six individuals over the unresolved Appeal Court judgment on local government administration, another issue threatening the peace of the state has emerged.

The bishop , who is also the Founder of Sufficient Grace and Truth International Ministries and the International Communication Director of the Worldwide Anglican Church (WAC), called on leaders of both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to pursue their grievances lawfully and avoid further bloodshed in the state.

“While residents of the state are just beginning to breathe a sigh of relief after the recent policing and the violent takeover of local government councils three weeks ago, we have now woken up to yet another serious issue of public concern,” he said.

“The latest controversy involves allegations of mismanagement of public funds amounting to billions of naira by the incumbent administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke against his predecessor, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, who is now a federal minister, and some of his former aides.

“Fortunately, the matter has already been reported to the anti-graft agency. Leaders must take responsibility for their actions and be prepared for scrutiny after leaving office. If they have governed with integrity, they should have no fear of investigation.

“The straightforward approach is for those accused of corruption to defend themselves before the anti-graft agency or the court, while the accusers must be ready to provide concrete evidence—unless the allegations are baseless.

“However, with the ongoing claims and counterclaims between both parties, I am concerned about the potential consequences. The struggle for dominance in public discourse by these political gladiators is instilling fear among the peace-loving residents of Osun State.

“These political actors must remember the six souls who lost their lives in the local government crisis. Their families are left to bear the pain and burden of their loss. It would be disastrous if another violent crisis erupts.”

Adeoye emphasised that no meaningful development can occur in an atmosphere of crisis. He urged leaders of both parties to avoid actions that could provoke unrest, warning that divine punishment awaits those who intentionally incite conflict among the people of the state.