The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has raised concern over what it described as a disturbing spate of extra-judicial killings and violent incidents across the state, particularly in Osogbo, the state capital.
The party, in a statement issued on Saturday by its Director of Media and Information, Mogaji Kola Olabisi, called on the Osun State Government and security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property.
The statement followed a Friday shooting incident in the Owo-Eba/Owode-Ilesa area of Osogbo in which two people were confirmed dead and four others injured.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed the incident, describing it as a suspected clash involving cult groups. The police identified one of the deceased as a man popularly known as “Small Rugged” and said the identity of the second victim was yet to be established officially. The command also said four injured persons were taken to a hospital for treatment, while the Commissioner of Police, Ibrahim Zungura, directed tactical teams to apprehend those responsible.
Reacting to the development, the APC said hopes that the conclusion of the August 15, 2026 governorship election would bring an end to violent incidents in the state had not been realised.
The party expressed concern that recurring reports of killings and violent attacks could have wider implications for the image, economic activities and social life of Osun State.
According to the APC, the latest incident occurred around Owo-Eba, near Ilesa Garage, where unidentified assailants reportedly attacked people at a lounge. The party alleged that weapons including guns, machetes, knives and cudgels were used during the attack.
While the APC named some of the reported victims, the identities and circumstances surrounding some of those mentioned had not been officially confirmed by the police at the time of reporting.
The police account confirmed two deaths and four injuries, while describing the incident as a suspected cult clash.
The APC urged residents to remain law-abiding and expressed sympathy to victims and residents affected by the violence.
The party also called on Governor Ademola Adeleke's administration to take stronger measures to address insecurity and prevent further loss of lives.
“The current state of insecurity in the state is making nonsense of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended,” the party said, arguing that the protection of lives and property should remain a priority of government.
The APC further urged the police and other security agencies to intensify surveillance, investigation and enforcement efforts across the state.
It said the authorities should ensure that perpetrators of violent crimes are identified and brought before the appropriate courts, stressing that no individual or group should take the law into its own hands.
The party maintained that recurring incidents of violence could undermine public confidence and create fear among residents, visitors and business operators.
It therefore called for sustained collaboration among the state government, security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and residents to strengthen security across Osun.
The APC's statement was signed by its Director of Media and Information, Mogaji Kola Olabisi.
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