Osun APC calls for investigation into Alapomu’s alleged role in electoral violence

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo

The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned Oba Kayode Adenekan Afolabi, the Alapomu of Apomu, over alleged involvement in inciting electoral violence during the 2023 election for the Aiyedaade/Isokan/Ikire Federal Constituency seat.

The APC alleges that the traditional ruler played a role in supporting the election of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate, Mr. Oladebo Lanre Olomololaye, to the House of Representatives.

According to a recently circulated audio/video recording, the Alapomu reportedly confessed to instigating violence against APC supporters in support of the PDP candidate.

In response, the APC, through its Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, has called on the Inspector-General of Police to investigate the matter and take necessary action.

The APC urged Oba Afolabi to clarify his remarks, particularly his reference to “Ta! Ta!! Ta!!!” in the recording, and to identify the individuals mentioned as “Akogun” and “Mao.”

In the recording, the Alapomu reportedly expressed feeling disrespected when “Akogun” informed him a day before the election that the Olufi of Gbongan, a senior traditional ruler, was working against the PDP candidate’s success.

The Alapomu allegedly viewed this as an affront, citing historical tradition that places the Alapomu as a “father” figure to the Olufi. In response, he reportedly instructed his supporters to ensure the PDP’s victory at all costs, even implying the use of violence.

In the video, the Alapomu allegedly stated, “I told MAO… that if it could become a war, it should be, and if it was a mere fight, let it be. No one can arrest an Oba but God. For whatever it might entail, go and do all necessary things to ensure that Lanre wins the election. That was how the atmosphere became Ta! Ta!! Ta!!!.”

The APC described the remarks as disheartening, accusing the traditional ruler of misusing his position to incite violence. “It is disturbing that a traditional ruler could stoop so low, using his revered office to promote violence in a domain where he should ideally be a father to all, irrespective of party affiliation,” the party said.

The statement further criticized Oba Afolabi for allegedly failing to uphold the standards of peace expected from a traditional leader, noting his apparent silence regarding violence in both the 2022 governorship and 2023 general elections.

The APC also called on the Alapomu to disclose the identities of “Akogun” and “Mao” referenced in the video and clarify his intentions behind the phrase “Ta! Ta!! Ta!!!”

“In a country governed by the rule of law, where no individual should be above reproach, we urge the Inspector-General of Police to promptly investigate this matter to uphold justice and deter similar actions in the future,” the statement concluded.

The APC also pointed out the irony that Mr. Oladebo Lanre Olomololaye, the beneficiary of the Alapomu’s alleged incitement, now serves as the representative of the Ayedaade/Isokan/Irewole Federal Constituency in the 10th House of Representatives under the PDP banner.