Members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in Esa-Oke, Obokun Local Government Area of Osun State, have rejected attempts to link the recent killing of an Accord Party member, Ajayi Rogba, to the Director-General of the party’s campaign council for the August 15 governorship election, Wole Oke.
Ajayi, who was an indigene of the community, was reportedly murdered on Tuesday night by suspected thugs.
During a condolence visit to the deceased’s family on Wednesday, Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, allegedly suggested that the killing was carried out by thugs loyal to the APC.
The governor also reportedly criticised Oke, a member of the House of Representatives from the area, while calling on the police to thoroughly investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.
However, speaking at a press conference in Esa-Oke on Friday, Prof. Siji Olamiju, who addressed journalists on behalf of APC members in the area, warned against politicising the death of the Accord Party member.
Olamiju described attempts to exploit the incident for political advantage as insensitive to the grieving family and harmful to the pursuit of justice.
“APC members in Ward 7, Esa-Oke, consider it necessary to address the growing attempts by some political actors to exploit this tragedy for partisan purposes.
“We are particularly concerned that certain individuals have hastily linked this unfortunate incident to politics without allowing the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies to conclude their investigations,” he said.
According to him, justice can only be achieved through a fair and professional investigation rather than speculation or politically motivated accusations.
“Justice can only be achieved through a thorough, impartial and professional investigation, not through speculation, political rhetoric or media trials,” he added.
Olamiju also absolved Oke of any involvement in the killing, insisting that efforts to associate the lawmaker or the APC with the incident were unfounded and politically motivated.
According to him, there was no credible evidence connecting the party or its leaders to the crime.
“We respectfully urge His Excellency, Governor Ademola Adeleke, and all public office holders to exercise restraint and allow law enforcement agencies to discharge their constitutional responsibilities independently and without interference or premature conclusions,” he said.
The APC chieftain further appealed to security agencies to conduct a comprehensive, transparent and unbiased investigation into the killing.
“The APC remains committed to the rule of law, justice and accountability,” Olamiju stated.
“We firmly maintain that whoever is found culpable after a lawful and impartial investigation, regardless of political affiliation, social status or influence, must face the full weight of the law.”
He also urged political stakeholders to allow truth, due process and justice to prevail over politics and unverified allegations while honouring the memory of the deceased.
