By By Elizabeth Ugbo
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, on Sunday denied allegations linking the party and its governorship candidate, Alhaji Bola Oyebamiji, to political violence in Osun State. Oyintiloye spoke with journalists in Osogbo, describing the claims as the handiwork of desperate politicians seeking to tarnish the party’s image ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
APC Distances Itself from Violent Groups
Oyintiloye said the APC has completely dissociated itself from any individual or group using the party’s name to perpetrate violence, intimidate citizens, or disrupt public peace.
He stressed that the party believes in democracy, the rule of law, and the people’s constitutional right to freely choose their leaders through peaceful and credible elections.
According to him, anyone sponsoring violence or committing criminal acts in the APC’s name is acting for personal interests. He said such individuals should not be identified with the party.
Violence Contradicts APC Values
Oyintiloye maintained that the APC has never embraced violence or intimidation as a political strategy.
He explained that the party is built on the Omoluabi ethos, which promotes integrity, discipline, honesty, humility, respect, compassion, justice, accountability, and selfless service.
He also condemned the killing of innocent residents for political reasons, 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.”
APC Confident of Election Victory Without Violence
Oyintiloye said the APC does not need violence to win the August 15 governorship election.
He added that the party and its candidate have no connection with individuals or groups allegedly using the APC’s name to create unrest across the state.
Furthermore, he said the APC remains committed to peaceful coexistence, inclusiveness, tolerance, constructive engagement, and people-centred leadership that prioritises citizens’ welfare, security, and prosperity.
Call for Peace and Justice
Oyintiloye urged APC members, political actors, security agencies, and residents to remain calm, law-abiding, and vigilant while allowing relevant authorities to investigate recent attacks and prosecute those responsible.
He reaffirmed the party’s commitment to democracy, peace, justice, and the protection of lives and property. He also appealed to all stakeholders to place the unity, stability, and development of Osun State above political interests.
In addition, he sympathised with families who lost loved ones to extrajudicial killings and other violent attacks. He prayed for God to grant them strength to bear their losses.
Rising Tension Ahead of Osun Governorship Election
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that several incidents of political violence have claimed lives in different parts of Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Police Command has assured residents of their safety and pledged to arrest those behind the killings.
