By Emmanuel Thomas l Tuesday, August 18, 2026
IKIRE, OSUN STATE — In a swift response to the political violence recorded on the eve of the Osun State Governorship election, the Senator representing Osun West Senatorial District, Akogun Lere Oyewunmi, has conducted an on-the-spot assessment and inspection of several vandalized residences belonging to leaders of the Accord party across the state.
The high-level inspection covered several affected communities across Irewole Local Government Area and neighboring localities, including Ikire and Ikoyi. Among the residences inspected were those of Hon. Ambali Taye Kondo in Ikoyi; Hon. Owodunni Abiodun (Wocco); and Hon. Taofeeq Ajagun (Ultimate) in Ikoyi. Senator Oyewunmi also visited the residence of Akinola Paul (Halleluyah) at Oke Awo, Ikire; the home of the Commissioner for Energy, Hon. Festus Adeyemo; Alhaji Lateef at Moro, Ikire; and Hon. Nureni Owoade in the Amukuku area of Ikire.
During the extensive tour, the lawmaker personally evaluated the structural damage inflicted on the properties, offering deep sympathies to the affected party leaders, their immediate families, and local supporters. Speaking after the inspection, Senator Oyewunmi strongly condemned the coordinated attacks, describing them as unwarranted, cowardly, and completely unacceptable in a civilized democratic setting.
”Political differences should never be allowed to degenerate into violence, destruction, intimidation, or attacks on the homes and properties of fellow citizens,” Oyewunmi stated. “Democracy is built on tolerance, dialogue, respect for differing opinions, and the freedom of every citizen to support the political party or candidate of their choice.”
Commending the victimized political leaders for their resilience in the face of hostility, the Senate Deputy Minority Leader lauded their unwavering commitment to their democratic convictions despite enduring destruction and harassment. He assured them that their courage and sacrifices for the peace and overall development of their communities would not be in vain.
In response, the affected leaders and community members expressed gratitude to the lawmaker for his timely presence and solidarity during a challenging moment. Reaffirming their commitment to democratic ideals, the Accord leaders assured the Senator that they would remain calm, law-abiding, and steadfast in their political beliefs despite the unprovoked attacks.
Addressing the broader security concerns raised by the incidents, Senator Oyewunmi assured residents that appropriate security and administrative channels are being actively engaged to identify and prosecute all individuals responsible for the violence. He emphasized that no individual, regardless of status or political affiliation, should be treated as above the law.
He further issued a passionate appeal to all Accord members, party supporters, and general residents across the affected local government areas to maintain peace and resist any temptation to carry out retaliatory attacks. “Violence will only deepen the pain and create further division among our people,” he warned, stressing that true leaders must defend democratic institutions solely through lawful and peaceful means.
Concluding his visit, the lawmaker called on security agencies and law enforcement authorities to execute a thorough, impartial, and speedy investigation into the attacks to ensure justice is served swiftly.
The incidents of violence in Ikire and Ikoyi reflect recurring tensions during off-cycle elections in Southwestern Nigeria. Ikire, the headquarters of Irewole Local Government Area, serves as a critical political stronghold in the Osun West Senatorial District.
Senator Lere Oyewunmi, a veteran political figure who previously served as the Chairman of Irewole Local Government and a member of the House of Representatives, has consistently advocated for peaceful voter participation across Osun State.
The affected communities of Ikire and Ikoyi remain key battlegrounds where inter-party friction frequently escalates during major election cycles, prompting calls from civic organizations and political leaders for enhanced security deployment ahead of official balloting.
