Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Mrs. Taliat Simbiat, a supporter of the Accord Party who reportedly slumped and died during the party’s recent primary election in Iwo, describing the incident as a painful loss to her family, the party and the state.

The Governor’s spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, in a statement issued on Sunday in Osogbo, said Adeleke was devastated by the news of her passing and extended heartfelt condolences to her family and associates.

According to the Governor, the deceased was a committed party faithful and one of the strongest promoters of his administration in Iwo and its environs.

“Mrs. Taliat Simbiat’s sudden passing has left a deep pain in my heart that words cannot adequately convey. The deceased was more than a party faithful but one of our administration’s biggest promoters in Iwo and environs,” Adeleke was quoted as saying.

He described her death as an irreparable loss, praying for the repose of her soul and for God to grant her family the fortitude to bear the loss.

The Governor also reiterated his administration’s zero tolerance for political violence, urging politicians to conduct their activities peacefully and view politics as a platform for service rather than conflict.

Adeleke commended members of the Accord Party for what he described as the peaceful conduct of the party’s primaries across Osun State, noting that the exercise reflected unity and a shared sense of purpose among party members.

Reacting to allegations by the All Progressives Congress (APC) that his administration was shielding thugs, the Governor dismissed the claims, insisting that his political philosophy has always been rooted in peace, stability and respect for the rule of law.

He maintained that those making such allegations were attempting to distort facts known to the people of Osun, stressing that his government would continue to uphold peace and democratic principles in the state.