Osun Gubernatorial Race: APC Can Win Without Violence, Says Chieftain Oyintiloye

Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a senior member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, stated that the party does not need to resort to violence to secure victory in the August 15 governorship election, emphasizing that violence cannot guarantee electoral success.

Oyintiloye dismissed allegations that the APC and its candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, were linked to the state’s rising political violence, describing such claims as the work of “desperate politicians.”

The former lawmaker made the remarks while speaking with journalists on Sunday in Osogbo.

He asserted that neither the party nor its candidate is connected to individuals or groups allegedly using the APC’s name to commit violence and create unrest in the state.

According to Oyintiloye, the APC is founded on the timeless Omoluabi ethos, which upholds values such as integrity, discipline, humility, honesty, respect, compassion, justice, accountability, and self‑less service.

The APC chieftain condemned the killing of innocent residents for political purposes, describing those responsible as people with a “dead conscience.”

He further said, “The APC is a party of peace and has nothing to do with the allegations of violence against it. We condemn every form of violence, lawlessness and bloodshed, irrespective of the status of those involved. No political ambition or partisan interest is worth the loss of a human life. We urge those perpetrating these acts to desist.”

Oyintiloye added that, as a progressive party, “the APC remains committed to peaceful coexistence, inclusiveness, tolerance, mutual respect, constructive engagement and people‑centred leadership that prioritises the welfare, security and prosperity of citizens.”

He maintained that the progressive family has never embraced violence or intimidation as a means of political engagement.

Oyintiloye insisted that the APC has dissociated itself completely from any individual or group hiding under its name to perpetrate violence, create unrest, intimidate citizens or disrupt public peace in any part of the state.

He emphasised that the party believes in the democratic process, the rule of law and the sovereign right of the people to freely choose their leaders through peaceful and credible elections.

Oyintiloye warned that “anyone who seeks to cause mayhem, sponsor violence or use the APC’s name to justify criminal acts is acting in personal interest and should not be identified with the party.”

He said such conduct is “inconsistent with the APC’s long‑established culture of moderation, civility and responsible political participation.”

Oyintiloye subsequently called on party members, political actors, security agencies and the general public to remain calm, law‑abiding and vigilant, while allowing relevant authorities to investigate all incidents and bring perpetrators to justice.

He reaffirmed the APC’s commitment to democracy, peace, justice and the protection of lives and property, urging all stakeholders to prioritise the unity, stability and development of Osun State above political considerations.

Sympathising with the families of victims of extrajudicial killings and other acts of violence in the state, he prayed that God grants them the strength and fortitude to bear the loss.