Former Vice President and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has blamed the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the escalating political violence in Osun State, particularly in the ongoing crisis surrounding local government administration. Naija247news reports that Atiku’s statement comes amid growing tensions in the state, which has witnessed a series of clashes between supporters of the PDP and APC.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!According to Naija247news, Atiku, in a strongly worded statement released on Friday, accused the APC of orchestrating violence to destabilize the PDP-led state government. “The APC’s desperation to regain control of Osun State has led to a dangerous escalation of political violence, putting the lives of innocent citizens at risk,” Atiku stated. He further called on security agencies to intervene and restore order before the situation spirals out of control.
Naija247news gathered that the crisis stems from a prolonged dispute over the administration of local governments in the state. The Osun State Government, led by Governor Ademola Adeleke, recently dissolved the caretaker committees appointed by the previous APC administration, citing illegality. This move has sparked protests and counter-protests, with both parties accusing each other of inciting violence.
Naija247news understands that the situation took a violent turn earlier this week when clashes broke out in Osogbo, the state capital, leaving several people injured and properties destroyed. Eyewitnesses told Naija247news that the violence was triggered by a confrontation between PDP and APC supporters during a protest organized by the APC to demand the reinstatement of the dissolved committees.
According to Naija247news, Atiku’s statement has drawn mixed reactions from political stakeholders. While PDP supporters have hailed his intervention, describing it as timely and necessary, APC leaders have dismissed the allegations as baseless. Osun APC Chairman, Tajudeen Lawal, in a response obtained by Naija247news, accused the PDP of using propaganda to cover up its failures in governance.
Naija247news reports that the crisis has raised concerns about the potential impact on Osun State’s peace and stability, especially as the nation prepares for the 2027 general elections. Civil society organizations have called for dialogue and urged both parties to prioritize the welfare of citizens over political interests.
As the situation unfolds, Naija247news gathered that security agencies have deployed additional personnel to hotspots in the state to prevent further violence. Meanwhile, Atiku has reiterated his call for national unity and peaceful coexistence, urging political leaders to embrace dialogue and shun actions that could undermine democracy.