Photos: Thugs wreak havoc at Wike-backed PDP congresses in Oyo
Violence Erupts at PDP Congresses in Oyo State
By Adeola Badru
OYO STATE, Nigeria — Violence broke out on Saturday as suspected political thugs targeted local government congresses organized by a faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike. The attacks resulted in several injuries and extensive property damage.
Incidents were reported in various locations across Oyo State, including Ibadan, Ogbomoso South, Akinyele, and Igboora in Ibarapa Central Local Government Area. Witnesses indicated that assailants stormed multiple venues, assaulting participants and vandalizing vehicles, which appeared to be part of a coordinated effort to disrupt the congresses.
Abdulrahman Akinoso, chairman of the Wike-affiliated faction in Oyo, confirmed the attacks and stated that at least ten individuals sustained injuries. “Our local government congresses were attacked across Oyo State,” Akinoso said in a telephone interview. He detailed that three vehicles were vandalized at the residence of former deputy governor Hazeem Gbolarumi in Ibadan, where faction members had gathered for the congress.
Reports also emerged about an invasion at Gbolarumi’s residence, where property was damaged, further escalating tensions within the party based on ongoing factional disputes over control within the state.
As the situation develops, party leaders face increased challenges in maintaining order and unity among members, complicating the political landscape in Oyo State.
