All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate in the 15th August, 2026, Osun State governorship election, Bola Oyebamiji, has raised the alarm that the political violence in the state had attained a dangerous dimension.
He alleged that at least 25 members of his party had been killed in the political crisis that had engulfed the state.
Oyebamiji, however, said the killings took place in 2022.
Oyebamiji, who disclosed this yesterday during an interactive session with journalists in Lagos, said contrary to the belief in some quarters that his party was behind the violent attacks, it was the government in power in the state that was attacking and maiming his party members in a bid to scare the electorate away from participating in the polls.
He said, “The last reason why we call this meeting is to reassure Osun people and Nigerians, through you, that both the APC and I have been victims of the persistent political violence in Osun State. During the 2022 governorship election, more than 25 members of our party were allegedly murdered by members of the political party in power in Osun.
“In my own local government area, for example, the chairman of Irewole local government area, Hon. Remi Abass, was killed within the council secretariat. Our party has also documented several other politically motivated attacks and killings, for which we continue to seek justice through the courts.
“Therefore, the ongoing political violence in the state shows that the government in power is involved in it. Recently, the inspector-general of police visited Osun State and publicly alleged that individuals accused of criminal activities were being housed in the Government House. Reports also emerged a few days ago concerning the arrest of a suspected criminal within the private residence of the secretary to the state government in Osogbo. Furthermore, reports from last night indicated that some of our members were attacked in Ede, the hometown of Governor Ademola Adeleke,” he alleged.
The party standard bearer continued, “As an opposition party, we have these experiences from our members. Ironically, it is the Accord party and the government of Adeleke that would cry foul while our members bear the scars of political violence.”
The two-time commissioner for Finance in the state also spoke on key aspects of his campaign manifesto, tagged “Prosperity Agenda”, saying it represents a covenant with the people of the state to deliver economic growth, social inclusion and lasting development through prudent leadership, strategic investments and private-sector-driven development.
Oyebamiji described the agenda as a practical blueprint for accelerating economic transformation, promoting inclusive governance and delivering sustainable development across the state.
While pledging to restore dignity to the state’s public service, ensure prompt payment of salaries and improve workers’ welfare if elected, he said,” In line with our campaign promises, within our first 100 days in office, we will undertake a comprehensive review of all outstanding entitlements owed to active and retired workers and commence immediate payment.
“We are equally committed to ensuring that the Dagbolu Dry Port becomes fully operational. In addition to these, through strategic partnerships, we will commence the training and empowerment of not fewer than 10,000 young people in information and communication technology.
“We will also institutionalise monthly meetings of the State Security Council involving security agencies, traditional rulers, and local government leaders. Furthermore, we will launch pilot off-grid renewable energy projects in selected public institutions and rural communities. Similarly, we will conduct a comprehensive fiscal sustainability review covering state revenue, expenditure, and debt obligations.
“We will also undertake a state-wide infrastructure audit to identify priority economic roads and other critical infrastructure needs. These, among others, are the initiatives that we consider essential within our first one hundred days in office.”
