Retired General says Osun is campaigning for election, not fighting a war; backs Muniredeen Oyebanji as “clear choice of the masses”
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State and former Commander of the Osun State Amotekun Corps, Brig. Gen. Bashir Biodun Adewinmbi (rtd.), has condemned what he described as alleged attacks and acts of violence against APC members in the state.
Adewinmbi, who spoke at his residence in Ede, called on political actors across the state to embrace peace and ensure that the forthcoming electoral process is not undermined by violence.
The retired military officer expressed concern over alleged attacks by suspected political thugs, reportedly linked to supporters of the Accord Party, against APC members and supporters.
According to him, political disagreements should not degenerate into violence, stressing that Osun State is preparing for an election and not a war.
“We are campaigning for an election in Osun State; we are not fighting a war. There is no justification for political violence, intimidation or attacks on citizens because of their political affiliation.”
Adewinmbi also appealed to the state government, particularly Governor Ademola Adeleke, to take steps to prevent violence and call political actors and their supporters to order.
He urged the governor to discourage actions capable of creating tension ahead of the election, while also cautioning against what he described as attempts to shift blame onto the APC whenever incidents of violence occur.
The APC chieftain equally appealed to members and supporters of the Accord Party to concentrate on presenting their programmes and winning the confidence of voters rather than engaging in activities that could threaten lives and property.
“The Accord Party should face the election and desist from killings and acts of violence in Osun State. Politics should be about ideas, programmes and the people, not violence.”
Adewinmbi Backs Oyebanji
Turning to the political contest, Adewinmbi declared his support for Alhaji Muniredeen Oyebanji, describing him as a candidate with strong grassroots acceptance and insisting that he remains, in his view, “the clear choice of the masses in Osun State.”
He urged APC supporters to remain united, peaceful and committed to the democratic process, while encouraging eligible voters to exercise their constitutional rights without fear or intimidation.
The retired general stressed that a peaceful environment was essential for credible elections, warning that political violence could discourage voters and damage the democratic process.
He therefore appealed to political parties, candidates, supporters, traditional and community leaders, security agencies and the state government to work together to guarantee peace before, during and after the election.
Adewinmbi said the people of Osun deserve an electoral process in which citizens can freely choose their leaders without threats, intimidation or violence.
He concluded by calling on all stakeholders to put the interests of Osun State above partisan considerations and ensure that the state remains peaceful throughout the election period.
