Osun Violence: APC chieftain blames ‘desperate politicians,’ denies party link

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun,  Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has described claims linking the party and its candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, to rising political violence in the state as the handiwork of desperate politicians.

Oyintiloye, a former lawmaker, made the remark while speaking with journalists on Sunday in Osogbo.

He said neither the party nor its candidate had any connection with individuals or groups allegedly using the APC’s name to perpetrate violence and create unrest in the state.

According to him, the APC is founded on the Omoluabi ethos, which upholds integrity, discipline, humility, honesty, respect, compassion, justice, accountability, and selfless service.

The APC chieftain condemned the killing of innocent residents for political purposes, describing those responsible as people with a “dead conscience.”

“The APC is a party of peace and has nothing to do with the allegations of violence against it.

“We condemn every form of violence, lawlessness, and bloodshed, irrespective of the status of those involved.

“No political ambition or partisan interest is worth the loss of a human life. We urge those perpetrating these acts to desist,” he said.

Oyintiloye added that, as a progressive party, the APC remains committed to peaceful coexistence, inclusiveness, tolerance, mutual respect, constructive engagement, and people-centred leadership that prioritises the welfare, security, and prosperity of citizens.

He said the party does not need to engage in violence to win the Aug. 15 governorship election, stressing that violence does not secure electoral victory.

Oyintiloye maintained that the progressive family has never embraced violence or intimidation as a means of political engagement.

He said the APC had completely dissociated itself from any individual or group using its name to perpetrate violence, create unrest, intimidate citizens, or disrupt public peace in any part of the state.

He emphasised that the party believes in the democratic process, the rule of law, and the sovereign right of the people to freely choose their leaders through peaceful and credible elections.

He warned that anyone seeking to cause mayhem, sponsor violence, or use the APC’s name to justify criminal acts is acting in personal interest and should not be identified with the party.

He added that such conduct is inconsistent with the APC’s long-established culture of moderation, civility, and responsible political participation.

Oyintiloye called on party members, political actors, security agencies, and the general public to remain calm, law-abiding, and vigilant, while allowing relevant authorities to investigate incidents and bring perpetrators to justice.

He reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to democracy, peace, justice, and the protection of lives and property, urging all stakeholders to prioritise the unity, stability, and development of Osun State above political considerations.

He also sympathised with families of victims of extrajudicial killings and other acts of violence in the state, praying that God grants them the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that there have been a series of political violence incidents in the state, resulting in killings in different parts ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

The state police command has assured residents of their safety, promising to apprehend those responsible for the killings.