Political tensions in Osun State have escalated ahead of the August 15 governorship election as the campaign councils of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Accord Party traded accusations over unresolved political killings, urging the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, to intervene. Both parties, during the IGP’s visit to the state on Friday, called for swift action on alleged violence linked to their members, demanding investigations, arrests, and even the redeployment of the state’s Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Gotan.
The Osun APC Governorship Campaign Council, in a statement by its Head of Media and Publicity, Engr. Oluremi Omowaiye, welcomed the IGP and expressed confidence in his commitment to justice and the rule of law. The council demanded the immediate arrest of individuals declared wanted in connection with killings of APC members, including Olalekan Oyeyemi (Emir Ajagungbade), Nurudeen Wakili (Nurudeen Alawonle), Solomon Adefioye (Solo Iwara), and Jide Joda. It also called for a thorough investigation into the alleged attempted assassination of its Director-General, Hon. Oluwole Oke.
The APC campaign council further requested a comprehensive review of all unresolved murder cases involving its members since 2022, citing multiple incidents across the state. It specifically linked Senate Minority Leader Lere Oyewumi to the murders of APC chieftains Saheed Oyegunju and Remi Abass, alleging his interference in police investigations. The council emphasized the need for the police to follow credible leads without political interference and reiterated its commitment to peace and democratic processes.
In response, the Imole Campaign Council (ICC), representing the Accord Party, expressed concern over the state of policing and security management in Osun. Through its spokesperson, Pelumi Olajengbesi, the ICC highlighted unresolved killings involving Accord members and demanded equal attention from law enforcement. The council called for the redeployment of Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan, arguing that a neutral and trustworthy police commissioner is essential to restoring public confidence ahead of the election.
The ICC also urged the IGP to investigate APC governorship candidate Bola Oyebamiji, Wole Oke, and Engr. Remi Omowaiye over allegations related to the deaths of Accord members. It listed several individuals accused of involvement in violent attacks across the state and called for their arrest. While urging its supporters to remain peaceful and law-abiding, the ICC reaffirmed its dedication to non-violent political engagement throughout the electoral process.
As the election draws near, both parties are intensifying their calls for accountability and transparency in security operations. The outcome of these demands may significantly influence public trust in the electoral process and the overall security environment in Osun State.
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