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 Osun political violence, describing the claims as the handiwork of desperate politicians seeking to discredit the party ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, the former lawmaker said neither the APC nor its candidate had any association with individuals or groups allegedly carrying out violent acts in the party’s name.
Oyintiloye maintained that the APC remains committed to peaceful democratic participation and rejected suggestions that the party was involved in acts of violence across the state. According to him, the party is founded on the Omoluabi philosophy, which promotes integrity, discipline, humility, honesty, respect, compassion, justice, accountability and selfless service. He condemned the killing of innocent residents for political purposes, describing those responsible as individuals 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.
Addressing the Osun political violence, Oyintiloye said the APC has no reason to resort to intimidation or violence to secure victory in the forthcoming governorship election.
He stated that the party remains committed to peaceful coexistence, inclusiveness, mutual respect and people-centred leadership that prioritises the welfare, security and prosperity of residents. The APC chieftain stressed that the party has completely dissociated itself from any individual or group using its name to create unrest, intimidate citizens or disrupt public peace in any part of Osun State.
He added that anyone engaging in criminal acts while claiming affiliation with the APC was acting solely in personal interest and should not be identified with the party. According to him, such actions are inconsistent with the party’s long-standing culture of moderation, civility and responsible political engagement.
Oyintiloye called on political actors, party supporters, security agencies and members of the public to remain calm, law-abiding and vigilant while allowing relevant authorities to investigate the incidents and prosecute those responsible.
He reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to democracy, peace, justice and the protection of lives and property, urging all stakeholders to place the unity, stability and development of Osun State above political interests. The APC leader also expressed sympathy to families affected by recent killings and other violent incidents, praying that they find strength during their period of mourning.
The Osun political violence concerns come amid a series of security incidents recorded across the state ahead of the August 15 governorship election. The Nigeria Police Force in Osun has assured residents that efforts are underway to apprehend those responsible and maintain public safety.
