The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Dr. Adegboyega Oyetola, CON, has accused Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, of engaging in incessant blackmail and misleading the public over the recent attacks in the state. In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Special Adviser Dr.
Bolaji Akinola, Minister Oyetola said Adeleke should stop “his incessant blackmails, telling lies to the people” and desist from using propaganda to shift responsibility for the attacks. Oyetola alleged that the governor and his supporters have consistently unleashed violence on opposition members and innocent citizens, only to turn around and blame the All Progressives Congress (APC) without any evidence.
“He should stop blackmailing me and stop deceiving the public with false accusations. The people know the truth, and no amount of propaganda can change it,” the Minister said. The Minister described the recent attacks against APC members in the state as “deeply unfortunate and unacceptable in a democracy,” stressing that political contests must never degenerate into intimidation, attacks, or bloodshed.
He accused the governor of “weaponising insecurity for political gains,” adding that such tactics would not halt the growing support for the APC across the state ahead of the forthcoming governorship election. “No amount of propaganda or diversionary tactics will change the will of the people,” Oyetola declared.
The Minister called on the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies to maintain law and order throughout the campaign period and ensure the safety of all citizens regardless of political affiliation. He also sympathised with victims of the attacks and reiterated that democracy should be anchored on peace, fairness, and respect for the rule of law.
According to reports, thugs allegedly linked to the Accord Party attacked APC supporters in Owode Ede, Governor Adeleke’s hometown, and other parts of the state on their way from a rally in Ile Ife to mobilise support for the APC governorship candidate in the August 15 election, Bola Oyebamiji.