In a concerning development, the Alapomu of Apomu, Oba Kayode Adenekan, a prominent traditional ruler in Osun State, has been accused of inciting electoral violence. A video surfaced showing the monarch reportedly urging members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to harm supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the upcoming 2027 elections. This incident follows a history of election-related violence in the state, particularly in the 2023 presidential and National Assembly elections.
In the video, Oba Adenekan, speaking in Yoruba, appeared to reference the 2023 elections, allegedly encouraging PDP candidate Oladebo Lanre Omoleye to use violence as a strategy to outmaneuver his APC opponent.
The town of Apomu, along with nearby Ikire, both in the Osun West senatorial district, witnessed significant violence during the last election cycle. The area saw incidents of voter intimidation, and the brazen abduction and murder of APC ward executive Saheed Oyegunju. Oyegunju was reportedly kidnapped in broad daylight in Ikire, Irewole Local Government Area, by suspected political thugs, allegedly led by individuals known as Sodiq Ayewo and Kokumo. His body was later discovered at Oosa Village, near Ikire, deepening concerns over political violence in the region.
The public reaction to the monarch’s comments has been swift, with many residents and political observers calling for a thorough investigation into the allegations. The Osun State government and law enforcement agencies have yet to release an official statement addressing the incident.
