Osun State, Nigeria, is on edge following violent clashes between supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), which have left six people dead.
The crisis erupted on Monday as APC members attempted to reclaim control of local government secretariats after a Court of Appeal judgment reinstated sacked chairmen and councillors across 30 local government areas. The clashes turned deadly, with reports of machete attacks and gunfire at various council offices.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed the fatalities, condemning the violence and warning against further unrest. Police spokesperson Yemisi Opalola stated that several people were hospitalized due to injuries sustained in the confrontations. She assured residents that investigations were underway to bring the perpetrators to justice.
Among the deceased was the reinstated chairman of Irewole Local Government, Remi Abass, who was buried in Ikire according to Islamic rites. APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal alleged that PDP thugs were responsible for his murder and called for a thorough investigation into both the killers and their sponsors.
In response to the chaos, the Osun State Independent Electoral Commission (OSIEC) reaffirmed its decision to proceed with local government elections scheduled for Saturday. OSIEC Chairman Hashim Abioye assured the public that security measures were in place to ensure a free and fair election.
Meanwhile, tensions remain high as political leaders from both parties continue to trade accusations. APC National Secretary, Senator Ajibola Basiru, alleged that Secretary to the State Government Teslim Igbalaye orchestrated attacks on APC members, a claim Igbalaye denied.
Elder statesman Chief Abiola Ogundokun has urged all parties to embrace peace, warning against further bloodshed. He called on security agencies, including the police, DSS, and NSCDC, to act professionally in restoring order.
