A deadly crisis erupted in Osun State as eight individuals, including a local government chairman, were killed, and many others injured during violent clashes between members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The conflict arose as elected APC officials attempted to resume their positions at various council secretariats.
According to the state government, five members of the PDP lost their lives in the violence, while the APC reported the deaths of three of its members. This escalating tension stems from both parties claiming authority over the local government councils. The APC asserts that the Appeal Court reinstated the dismissed council chairmen and councillors, whereas the Osun State government argues that the election was nullified by a Federal High Court in Osogbo.
Escalation of Violence
From early morning, elected council officials mobilized to return to their offices in Boripe, Ilesa-West, Obokun, Odo-Otin, Iwo, Ayedaade, Isokan, and Irewole Local Government Areas (LGAs), among others. However, loyalists suspected to be aligned with the PDP stormed these offices, firing shots into the air in an effort to thwart the APC’s attempts.
In response, APC supporters retaliated, leading to further violence and casualties. Jamiu Olawumi, speaking for the APC Chairman at the Ileri-Oluwa Campaign office in Osogbo, stated that reinstated chairmen and councillors had successfully taken back control of about 15 LGAs before PDP thugs intervened.
By 9:15 am, council officials had regained control of several areas, including Ede-South, Ife-Central, Ife-North, Ife-East, Ilesa-East, Obokun, Odo-Otin, Osogbo, Boripe, Irewole, Isokan, Ayedaade, and Atakumosa-East LGAs. Despite this, PDP loyalists allegedly launched attacks, resulting in significant bloodshed.
Governor Adeleke’s Response
Governor Ademola Adeleke responded to the escalating violence by directing security agencies to assume control of all local government secretariats. In a statement via his X handle (@AAdeleke_01), he urged residents and politicians to stay away from the premises to prevent further loss of life and protect public property. He also expressed condolences to the families affected by the violence and emphasized the need to restore peace.
Police Investigation and Legislative Intervention
Osun Police Command Spokesperson, Yemisi Opalola, confirmed that the matter would be investigated. Meanwhile, members of the Osun State Caucus in the National Assembly called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene and restore law and order through the Inspector General of Police, the National Security Adviser, and the Attorney-General of the Federation.
The caucus accused the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Gboyega Oyetola, of orchestrating illegal actions alongside local security heads. They condemned the use of violence to undermine democracy and urged compliance with judicial decisions.
PDP’s Stance
The national leadership of the PDP declared that the sacked local government officials cannot forcibly reclaim their positions, citing a substantive judgment by the Appeal Court. PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, warned against any attempts to bypass legal processes, emphasizing the importance of respecting constitutional procedures.
The PDP strongly condemned the violence and killings perpetuated by APC supporters, urging the Inspector General of Police to hold accountable those responsible for the crimes committed during the crisis.
