Ikire killing: Accord, Oyebamiji, Adeleke campaign organisations cry foul, call for investigation
Political Tensions Erupt Following Killing of Accord Party Agent in Osun State
IKIRE, Osun State — The shooting death of Eluyera Kolade, an agent for the Accord party and son of the party’s Women Leader, has sparked a heated political dispute in Osun State. The incident has drawn responses from the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Imole Campaign Council as investigations by local police get underway.
The Osun State Police Command confirmed that Kolade succumed to gunshot wounds, prompting an active investigation into the case.
Pastor Victor Akande, chairman of the Accord party, condemned the killing as “callous and barbaric,” asserting that it reflects a troubling pattern of violence in the lead-up to the August 15 governorship election. The Accord claims that Kolade’s death is politically motivated, citing his previous role as a polling unit agent and his known unwavering stance in political matters. They also noted recent vandalism of campaign signs in the area as indicative of escalating tensions.
In light of the tragedy, the Accord has called on security agencies to thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding Kolade’s death and bring those responsible to justice. The party extended its condolences to Kolade’s family, emphasizing the need for accountability.
The Imole Campaign Council also expressed shock over the incident, linking it to prior reports of violence and intimidation in the region. Spokesperson Pelumi Olajengbesi stated, “Political disagreement must never be allowed to degenerate into violence, criminal intimidation, bloodshed and extra-judicial attacks,” urging for a comprehensive investigation into the matter.
In contrast, the APC’s Governorship Election Campaign Council labeled the allegations against its members as false and a politicization of Kolade’s death. Kola Olabisi, co-chairman of the council’s Media and Publicity Committee, asserted that violence is not part of their political culture and called for a thorough investigation by authorities, urging all parties to respect the process.
The Osun State Police confirmed that officers responded promptly to the shooting. According to the Police Public Relations Officer, while they arrived on the scene, some youths were transporting Kolade’s body to the station, where they were calmed. The police stated that the body has been sent to the morgue for autopsy to ascertain further details surrounding his death.
Police Commissioner Ibrahim Gotan has deployed additional personnel to the area to maintain order and support ongoing investigations. The police have assured residents that they are committed to identifying and apprehending those responsible and to upholding peace in the community.
