APC Not Connected To Osun Violence Claims, Oyintiloye Fires Back At Critics

A prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has dismissed allegations linking the party to political violence ahead of the state’s August 15 governorship election, insisting that the APC has no reason to embrace violence in its quest for victory.

According to reports, Oyintiloye made the remarks while addressing journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, where he responded to accusations associating the APC and its governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, with the recent wave of political unrest in the state.

He described the allegations as politically motivated, alleging that they were being propagated by desperate politicians seeking to tarnish the party’s image. Oyintiloye maintained that the APC is guided by the enduring Omoluabi values, which promote integrity, honesty, discipline, humility, accountability, justice, compassion, respect and selfless service.

Condemning the killing of innocent citizens for political gain, the APC stalwart described those responsible for such acts as individuals who have lost all sense of conscience. He stressed that the party has consistently rejected violence, lawlessness and bloodshed, regardless of those involved, adding that no political ambition is worth the loss of human lives.

Oyintiloye urged those behind violent acts to abandon such conduct, reaffirming the APC’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, inclusiveness, tolerance, mutual respect and leadership focused on the welfare, security and prosperity of the people.

He further stated that the party has never relied on violence or intimidation as a political strategy, emphasizing its confidence in democratic principles, the rule of law and the constitutional right of citizens to freely elect their leaders through peaceful and credible elections.

The APC chieftain also warned that anyone engaging in violence or attempting to use the party’s name to justify criminal activities was acting independently and should not be associated with the APC. According to him, such actions contradict the party’s long-standing culture of moderation, civility and responsible political engagement.

He concluded by appealing to party members, political stakeholders, security agencies and residents of the state to remain peaceful, law-abiding and vigilant while allowing the appropriate authorities to thoroughly investigate reported incidents and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice.