Osun State Amidst APC and PDP Clash Over Local Government Control
A violent confrontation between supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has resulted in eight fatalities and numerous injuries. The conflict erupted over the control of local government secretariats, with both parties asserting authority following contentious legal proceedings.
The dispute intensified when elected council officials from the APC attempted to resume duties in various local government areas, including Boripe, Ilesa-West, Obokun, Odo-Otin, Iwo, Ayedaade, Isokan, and Irewole. Their actions were met with resistance from individuals believed to be PDP supporters, leading to violent clashes. The APC reported the deaths of three members, including Remi Abass, chairman of Irewole Local Government Area, a councillor in Isokan, and a party member in Ola-Oluwa. Conversely, the PDP claimed the loss of five members during the altercations.
The root of the conflict lies in a disputed local government election. The APC contends that a Court of Appeal ruling reinstated their sacked council chairmen and councillors, legitimizing their return to office. In contrast, the Osun State government maintains that a Federal High Court in Osogbo nullified the election, rendering the APC officials’ actions unlawful.
In response to the escalating violence, Governor Ademola Adeleke has directed security agencies to secure all local government secretariats to prevent further bloodshed. The Osun State Police Command has initiated an investigation into the incidents, with Commissioner of Police, Mr. Ibrahim Maishanu, confirming the fatalities and urging political actors to eschew violence.
The situation has drawn national attention, with the Osun State caucus in the National Assembly appealing to President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser to intervene and restore order. As tensions remain high, there is a pressing need for dialogue and legal clarity to resolve the impasse and prevent further loss of life.