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 wave of political violence in the state, describing the claims as the handiwork of desperate politicians.
Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, the former lawmaker said neither the APC nor its candidate had any connection with individuals or groups allegedly using the party’s name to perpetrate violence and create unrest ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
Oyintiloye maintained that the APC is built on the Omoluabi ethos, which promotes integrity, discipline, humility, honesty, respect, compassion, justice, accountability, and selfless service.
He strongly condemned the killing of innocent residents for political reasons, describing those responsible as people with a “dead conscience. “According to him, “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. Oyintiloye said the APC remains committed to peaceful coexistence, inclusiveness, tolerance, mutual respect, constructive engagement, and people-oriented leadership focused on the welfare, security, and prosperity of citizens.
He insisted that the party has no need to resort to violence to secure victory in the forthcoming governorship election, stressing that electoral success cannot be achieved through intimidation or bloodshed.
The APC chieftain added that the party has completely distanced itself from any individual or group using its name to commit acts of violence, intimidate residents, or disrupt public peace in any part of Osun State.
He emphasised that the APC believes in democracy, the rule of law, and the right of citizens to freely elect their leaders through peaceful, credible, and transparent elections.
Oyintiloye warned that anyone sponsoring violence or using the APC’s name to justify criminal activities is acting solely in personal interest and should not be associated with the party.
He noted that such actions contradict the APC’s long-standing principles of moderation, civility, and responsible political participation.
The APC leader called on party members, political stakeholders, security agencies, and residents of the state to remain calm, law-abiding, and vigilant while allowing law enforcement authorities to investigate the recent incidents and bring those responsible to justice.
He also reaffirmed the party’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.
Oyintiloye further sympathised with families of victims of extrajudicial killings and other violent incidents across the state, praying for strength and comfort for those who lost loved ones.
The comments come amid growing concerns over a series of politically related violent incidents that have claimed lives in different parts of Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
The Osun State Police Command has assured residents of adequate security and pledged to identify and arrest those responsible for the killings.
