A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has dismissed allegations linking the party and its governorship candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, to the recent wave of Osun political violence, describing the claims as the work of desperate politicians.
Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, the former lawmaker maintained that neither the APC nor its governorship candidate had any connection with individuals or groups allegedly using the party’s name to perpetrate violence or create unrest ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Oyintiloye said the APC remains committed to peaceful political participation and condemned every form of violence, intimidation and bloodshed regardless of those involved. According to him, the party is built on the Omoluabi philosophy, which promotes integrity, discipline, humility, honesty, justice, accountability, compassion and selfless service.
“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.
The APC chieftain stressed that the party does not believe violence is necessary to secure victory in the forthcoming governorship election. He argued that the progressive family has consistently rejected intimidation and violent political engagement, insisting that democratic competition should be conducted peacefully.
Oyintiloye said the party had completely dissociated itself from any person or group attempting to use the APC’s name to intimidate citizens, cause unrest or commit criminal acts. He added that such behaviour contradicts the party’s established culture of moderation, civility and responsible political participation.
Addressing growing concerns over Osun political violence, Oyintiloye urged political parties, security agencies, party supporters and residents to remain calm and law-abiding while allowing investigators to identify and prosecute those responsible for recent attacks.
He reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to democracy, justice, peaceful coexistence and the protection of lives and property. According to him, all stakeholders should place the unity, security and development of Osun State above political interests as campaigns continue.
Oyintiloye also sympathised with families who lost loved ones in incidents of extrajudicial killings and other violent attacks recorded across the state. He prayed that the affected families would find the strength to bear their losses. The statement comes amid rising concerns over a series of violent incidents reported in different parts of Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Police Command has assured residents that adequate security measures are in place, pledging to apprehend those responsible for the killings and maintain law and order throughout the election period.
