A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has firmly stated that the party does not engage in violence to win the upcoming August 15 governorship election, dismissing allegations linking the APC and its candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, to rising political unrest as baseless and politically motivated. Speaking to journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye emphasized that violence does not secure electoral victory and that the party remains committed to peaceful democratic processes. He stressed that the APC has no connection with any individuals or groups using the party’s name to perpetrate violence or create chaos in the state.
Oyintiloye, a former lawmaker, described the claims as the work of desperate politicians seeking to undermine the party’s credibility. He highlighted that the APC is built on the Omoluabi ethos, a cultural value system that promotes integrity, discipline, humility, honesty, respect, compassion, justice, accountability, and selfless service. He condemned the killing of innocent residents for political gain, calling those responsible “people with dead consciences.” The APC chieftain reiterated that the party stands for peace and has nothing to do with the allegations of violence being leveled against it.
He declared that the APC condemns all forms of violence, lawlessness, and bloodshed, regardless of the status of those involved. According to him, no political ambition or partisan interest justifies the loss of a human life. He urged those engaging in such acts to immediately desist. Oyintiloye further stated that the APC remains committed to peaceful coexistence, inclusiveness, tolerance, mutual respect, and constructive engagement, with leadership that prioritizes the welfare, security, and prosperity of citizens.
The APC chieftain maintained that the party has never embraced violence or intimidation as tools of political engagement. He insisted that the APC has officially dissociated itself from any individual or group using its name to incite violence, intimidate citizens, or disrupt public peace in any part of Osun State. He emphasized the party’s belief in the democratic process, the rule of law, and the people’s sovereign right to choose their leaders through credible and peaceful elections.
Oyintiloye warned that anyone attempting to cause mayhem, sponsor violence, or use the APC’s name to justify criminal acts is acting in personal interest and should not be associated with the party. Such conduct, he said, is inconsistent with the APC’s long-standing culture of moderation, civility, and responsible political participation. He called on party members, political actors, security agencies, and the public to remain calm, law-abiding, and vigilant, allowing authorities to investigate all 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 prioritize the unity, stability, and development of Osun State above political interests. Oyintiloye also expressed sympathy to the families of victims of extrajudicial killings and other violent acts, praying that God grants them strength and fortitude to bear their loss. As the election approaches, the APC’s stance on peace and accountability continues to shape its campaign narrative in Osun State.
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