O sun State has plunged into chaos as a violent political clash between supporters of Governor Ademola Adeleke (PDP) and former Governor Gboyega Oyetola (APC) has left seven people dead, including Aderemi Abbas, the former chairman of Irewole Local Government Area.
Violence Erupts Over Court Ruling
The conflict was triggered by a contentious Court of Appeal ruling, which the APC claims reinstates their elected local government officials. Governor Adeleke, however, has dismissed the ruling as non-existent, accusing Oyetola—now the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy—of conspiring with security forces to forcibly enforce the judgment.
The Deadly Clashes
- Irewole LGA: Abbas was shot dead as APC supporters clashed with PDP members while attempting to take control of the local government premises.
- Boripe LGA: Two people were killed in Iragbiji, Oyetola’s hometown, amid violent attempts by APC members to enter the council secretariat.
- Olaoluwa & Isokan LGAs: More deaths and injuries were reported as gunfights erupted between rival groups.
- Olorunda LGA: Heavy police intervention was needed when APC supporters met resistance while trying to seize control of the council headquarters.
- Ilesa West: The convoy of Remi Omowaiye, a former aide to Oyetola, was attacked, leaving vehicles riddled with bullets and several people injured.
Political Accusations Fly
Both parties are trading blame over the bloodshed:
- PDP spokesman Oladele Bamiji reported that five of their members were killed, accusing APC thugs of carrying out coordinated attacks.
- APC leaders Jamiu Olawumi and Tajudeen Lawal mourned their slain chairman, alleging he was executed in cold blood by PDP loyalists.
Law Enforcement Cracks Down
In response to the escalating crisis, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has deployed additional tactical squads to Osun State, vowing to bring those responsible to justice. The Nigerian Police Force has condemned the violence, warning that anyone involved will face legal consequences.
Public & Celebrity Reactions
The crisis has sparked outrage beyond politics. Afrobeat star Davido took to social media to blast Osun State Commissioner of Police Mohammed Abba, accusing him of failing to maintain order.
Calls for Peace Amid the Chaos
With tensions at a boiling point, calls for peace are growing louder:
- Osun’s National Assembly caucus has urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene, blaming Oyetola and security forces for the unrest.
- Governor Adeleke has ordered a lockdown of all local government secretariats to prevent further bloodshed.
As Osun State grapples with this crisis, the tragic loss of lives serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of unchecked political rivalry. The urgent need for dialogue, legal resolution, and a return to peace cannot be overstated.
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