Political Violence Erupts in Ondo as APC Gubernatorial Aspirants Cry Out

The political landscape in Ondo State has become heated as All Progressives Congress (APC) gubernatorial aspirants raise the alarm over increasing political violence.

The tensions are rising ahead of next month’s primary election in the party, with the gubernatorial aspirants accusing the state government of sponsoring thugs to attack their supporters and deface campaign materials.

Former finance commissioner in the state, Wale Akinterinwa, and his spokesperson, Segun Ajiboye, have issued a press statement addressing the issue.

They claim that their supporters and those of other gubernatorial aspirants were attacked by armed thugs, who fired gunshots into the air to cause chaos and destruction.

The statement further asserts that no other gubernatorial aspirant, except for Governor Lucky Ayedatiwa, was spared of the attacks.

Despite the violence, Akinterinwa’s camp maintains that they have the capacity to protect their supporters and ensure their safety.

The gubernatorial aspirants have called on President Bola Tinubu and the National Chairman of the party, Abdullahi Ganduje, to intervene and prevent Governor Ayedatiwa from using political violence to advance his interests. They also urge security agencies to be on high alert and bring the culprits to book.

In response to these allegations, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ebenezer Adeniyan, stated that Governor Ayedatiwa has directed security agencies to arrest and prosecute those responsible for the attacks and the destruction of campaign materials.

The Governor has also emphasized that his administration will not tolerate any form of violence that threatens the peace and tranquility of the state.

As the primary election approaches, it remains to be seen whether the political climate in Ondo State will cool down and allow for a peaceful and fair contest among the gubernatorial aspirants.