The Osun State Civil Society Matters Committee (OSCSMC) of the Imole Campaign Council has strongly condemned the gun attack on Hon. Ajibola Asimiyu, Chairman of the Accord Party in Osogbo Local Government, describing the incident as a dangerous slide into political thuggery ahead of the August 15 governorship election.
In a statement issued by its Media Unit on Wednesday, OSCSMC said Hon. Asimiyu is widely known across Osogbo for his calm disposition and consistent advocacy for peace, unity, and dialogue within the Accord Party and among political stakeholders in the state.
“As a leader who champions dialogue over confrontation, targeting him in the name of election is unacceptable. The decision rests with the electorate, not through forceful attacks on any party member or resident,” the group stated.
The committee expressed concern that weeks to the governorship poll, the attack on a non-violent political leader raises legitimate fears about a possible campaign of intimidation designed to tilt the political landscape.
OSCSMC warned that rhetoric about deploying “any means necessary” to secure victory, when combined with physical attacks on opponents and destruction of campaign materials, exposes a mindset unfit for public office.
“Leadership is about service and integrity, not fear or coercion. Citizens have every right to question the character and intentions of those who resort to violence instead of ideas,” the statement added.
The group insisted that any individual or group aspiring to lead Osun State must demonstrate commitment to peaceful competition and respect for the rule of law.
OSCSMC said no amount of intimidation or evil scheming can override the will of the people. “On August 15, the ballot remains supreme and the good people of Osun State will freely exercise their power to choose authentic leadership,” it declared.
The committee demanded justice for Hon. Ajibola Asimiyu and called on security agencies to swing into action, investigate the attack, identify and prosecute the perpetrators without delay.
It also urged all political actors and their supporters to embrace peaceful, issue-based campaigns and to reject violence in all its forms as Osun approaches the election.
OSCSMC prayed for Hon. Asimiyu’s rapid and complete recovery, saying its solidarity remains with him and his family during this period.
Signed:
Media Unit,
Osun State Civil Society Matters Committee, Imole Campaign Council
