The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Osun State, Biodun Oyebamiji, has accused Governor Ademola Adeleke of portraying himself as a victim of political violence in an attempt to gain public sympathy ahead of Saturday’s governorship election.
Oyebamiji dismissed allegations that the APC had targeted Adeleke’s administration and members of his party, insisting that he and other APC supporters were the ones who had suffered political violence in the state.
The APC candidate made the allegation while addressing journalists, where he also accused members of the ruling party in Osun of being responsible for the deaths of several APC supporters since 2023.
“We are the victims. The governor is just playing the victim to curry sympathy. In his mind, he knows the truth.”
Oyebamiji said the APC had recorded what he described as persistent attacks against its members, alleging that more than 25 party members were killed during the 2022 governorship election.
He also cited the killing of Remi Abass, chairman of Irewole Local Government Area, who he alleged was killed inside the council secretariat.
“From 2023 to date, several of our members and other Osun citizens have been killed by agents of government. Our party has also documented several other politically motivated attacks and killings, for which we continue to seek justice through the courts.”
According to Oyebamiji, the pattern of violence in the state bears the signs of involvement by those in government.
He also referred to comments previously made by the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, during his visit to Osun, alleging that the police chief had raised concerns about individuals accused of criminal activities being accommodated within the Government House.
Oyebamiji further alleged that some APC members had recently been attacked in Ede, the hometown of Governor Adeleke.
“Ironically, it is the Accord Party and government of Adeleke that are crying foul while our members bear the scars of political violence.”
The APC candidate’s comments come amid heightened political tension ahead of the Osun governorship election, with both major political camps accusing each other of activities capable of threatening a peaceful poll.
Oyebamiji Promises Workers’ Payments, Youth Empowerment
Oyebamiji also outlined some of his plans for Osun State if elected governor.
He promised that his administration would review outstanding financial obligations owed to both serving and retired workers and begin efforts to settle the entitlements within his first 100 days in office.
“Once the good people of Osun hand me the mandate, we will, in line with our campaign promises, within our first 100 days in office, undertake a comprehensive review of all outstanding entitlements owed to active and retired workers and commence immediate payment.”
He also pledged to work towards making the Dagbolu Dry Port fully operational, saying the project would contribute to economic development and create opportunities for residents.
On youth development, Oyebamiji promised to establish strategic partnerships aimed at training and empowering at least 10,000 young people in information and communication technology (ICT).
He also said his administration would institutionalise monthly meetings of the State Security Council, bringing together security agencies, traditional rulers and local government leaders to address security concerns across the state.
The APC candidate said the proposed measures would form part of his administration’s efforts to improve workers’ welfare, strengthen security and create economic opportunities if he wins the election.
