THE Osun State Accord has accused thugs allegedly loyal to the All Progressives Congress, APC, of launching coordinated attacks on its members and supporters across the state, leaving several people injured and properties destroyed.
In a statement issued in Osogbo and signed by the State Chairman, Pastor Victor Akande, the party said heavily armed men suspected to be APC thugs carried out sporadic gun attacks in Obokun, Odo-Otin, Boripe, Irewole, and other local government areas.
Akande said the attacks in Iree, Boripe LGA, lasted through the night. He alleged that the palace of the Aree of Iree was targeted from multiple directions, with five people reportedly injured inside the palace.
In Obokun LGA, the party alleged that killings and arson continued unabated, with several houses burnt in Esa-Oke. It said the violence started two days ago and has overwhelmed security agencies.
At Okuku in Odo-Otin LGA, Accord said over 20 of its members are receiving treatment for gunshot injuries. In Ikire, Irewole LGA, it claimed the homes of 25 members were raided, family members were harassed, and properties vandalised. The residence of the party’s Campaign Director General, Senator Lere Oyewumi, was also allegedly attacked.
The statement further alleged that in Ifewara, the APC assembly candidate, who was earlier arrested and later released, coordinated attacks on Accord members and their homes, leaving several people injured.
Akande also alleged that military personnel who arrested the APC candidate and his associates have been suspended by Naval authorities.
In Osogbo, the party claimed five of Governor Ademola Adeleke’s appointees have been marked for attack and arrest. It said a manhunt was launched on one appointee on Thursday, while APC chieftain, Chief Tunde Badmus, was alleged to have ordered the arrest of another at polling units.
Meanwhile, the Osun State Government has condoled with families of those who lost their lives to election-related violence.
In a statement, the government said: “Every life lost is an Osun life. Politics should never cost anyone his or her life, irrespective of political affiliation.”
Governor Adeleke assured that an Independent Commission of Inquiry will be set up next Monday, immediately after the election, to investigate all reported killings and acts of violence.
“The Commission will establish the circumstances surrounding these incidents and recommend appropriate actions to ensure that everyone responsible is brought to justice, regardless of political affiliation, position or influence,” the statement read.
The government added that it will also provide support and compensation to bereaved families and honour the memory of victims.
“The election will come and go, but we will remain one people. We owe the dead justice, their families compassion, and the people of Osun a peaceful future,” the governor said.