The political landscape of Osun State, Nigeria, has been embroiled in a contentious power struggle between the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) following the October 15, 2022, local government elections. The conflict escalated significantly with the reinstatement of elected officials, leading to violent clashes and tragic loss of life. Amidst this turmoil, Governor Ademola Adeleke of the PDP paid a visit to former Governor Bisi Akande, a prominent figure in the APC, sparking a war of words between the two parties. The APC condemned the visit, accusing Adeleke of seeking a “soft landing” after PDP thugs allegedly killed an APC local government chairman and other party members. The PDP, in turn, lauded Adeleke’s actions as a demonstration of statesmanship and an effort to foster peace and dialogue.
The APC, through its spokesperson, Kola Olabisi, expressed outrage over Adeleke’s visit to Akande, questioning the governor’s sincerity in seeking reconciliation after the violence that claimed the life of Hon. Remi Abass, an APC local government chairman, and other party members. The APC argued that Adeleke should seek legal redress through the Supreme Court, rather than engaging in what they perceived as an attempt to undermine the legal process. They further emphasized that Akande, a staunch democrat, would not compromise the interests of his party for any “under-the-table arrangement.” The APC urged Adeleke to collaborate with the reinstated council officials to ensure effective governance and delivery of services to the people of Osun State.
In stark contrast, the PDP, represented by its state chairman, Sunday Bisi, praised Adeleke’s visit to Akande as a sign of his commitment to peace and reconciliation. They framed Adeleke’s actions as an attempt to engage with elders across party lines to de-escalate the conflict and restore order. The PDP also accused the APC of being “vampire-driven elements” who were bitter about their electoral defeat and attempting to destabilize the state. They highlighted the loss of six PDP members during the clashes, emphasizing Adeleke’s efforts to pursue peace despite the tragic circumstances.
The PDP further condemned the APC’s occupation of local government secretariats, asserting their commitment to restoring legitimately elected officials through legal means. They criticized the APC for what they perceived as undemocratic behavior and an unwillingness to abide by the rule of law. They reiterated Adeleke’s dedication to upholding democratic principles and protecting the people of Osun State from “political bandits and marauders.” The PDP encouraged Adeleke to continue his consultations with stakeholders, emphasizing their commitment to restoring peace and stability.
This exchange of accusations underscores the deep-seated political divisions in Osun State and the challenges in achieving lasting peace and reconciliation. The conflicting narratives presented by the APC and PDP reflect the polarized nature of the political landscape, with each side blaming the other for the violence and seeking to gain political advantage. The underlying issue remains the control of local government areas, a key source of power and influence in the state.
The future of Osun State hinges on the ability of its political leaders to transcend partisan interests and prioritize the well-being of the people. The clash between the APC and PDP serves as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions and the need for genuine dialogue and compromise to address the root causes of conflict. The ongoing tensions necessitate a concerted effort from all stakeholders to de-escalate the situation, promote peaceful coexistence, and ensure that the democratic process is respected and upheld. The path forward requires a commitment to the rule of law, respect for human rights, and a willingness to engage in constructive dialogue to address the underlying grievances and build a more inclusive and peaceful society.
