The Osun West Senator and DG of the Imole Campaign Council, Senator Lere Oyewumi, has condemned attacks on the homes of several leaders of the Accord Party on the eve of the Osun State governorship election, describing the incidents as unwarranted, cowardly and unacceptable.
Oyewumi said he conducted an on-the-spot assessment of some of the affected residences across Ikire and Ikoyi following reports of political violence and vandalism.
In a statement on X on Monday, he said the inspection covered the residence of Ambali Kondo in Ikoyi, as well as the homes of Owodunni Abiodun, popularly known as Wocco, and Taofeeq Ajagun, also known as Ultimate.
He said he also visited the residence of Akinola Paul, known as Halleluyah, at Oke Awo in Ikire; the home of the Commissioner for Energy, Festus Adeyemo; Alhaji Lateef’s residence at Moro, Ikire; and the residence of Nureni Owoade in the Amukuku area of Ikire.
According to Oyewumi, he personally assessed the extent of the damage and sympathised with the affected political leaders, their families and supporters.
“I strongly condemned the attacks as unwarranted, cowardly, and completely unacceptable in a democratic society,” he said.
The senator said political differences should not degenerate into violence, destruction, intimidation or attacks on the homes and properties of citizens.
“Democracy is built on tolerance, dialogue, respect for differing opinions, and the freedom of every citizen to support the political party or candidate of their choice,” Oyewumi added.
He commended the affected leaders for what he described as their courage, resilience and commitment to their political beliefs despite the alleged attacks and destruction.
Oyewumi said the victims and community members appreciated his visit, adding that their response strengthened his resolve to stand with residents during difficult periods.
He also said the affected leaders had reaffirmed their commitment to peace and assured him that they would remain calm, law-abiding and steadfast despite the incidents.
The senator urged security and law-enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute those responsible for the attacks.
He said, “I also assured the victims, affected leaders, and residents that appropriate security and administrative channels will continue to be engaged to ensure that the perpetrators are identified and brought to justice.
“Nobody should be above the law, and every citizen deserves protection regardless of political affiliation.”
Oyewumi appealed to Accord members, supporters and residents of the affected local government areas to remain peaceful and resist any temptation to retaliate.
“Violence will only deepen the pain and create further division among our people.
“As leaders, we must rise above provocation and continue to defend democracy through lawful and peaceful means. Violence has no place in a free and democratic society,” he said.
He called for a thorough, impartial and speedy investigation into the incidents, stressing that those found responsible should face the full weight of the law.
“Our people deserve peace. Our communities deserve security. And our democracy must be protected,” Oyewumi said.
