Sen. Olu Alabi, a member of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Board of Trustees (BoT), says nobody’s political ambition is worth the blood of any citizen in the ongoing local government crisis in Osun.
Alabi, in a statement on Thursday in Osogbo, said the tragic loss of six lives and property during the crisis on Monday was uncalled for.
According to him, the quest for power, whether in seeking or retaining it should not degenerate into acts of violence, intimidation and lawlessness.
Alabi, who noted that the state had long been known for its peaceful and harmonious political atmosphere, said the ongoing unrest was alien to the character of “our dear state”.
“Politics should never erode our collective humanity. While political competition is natural in any democracy, it must be guided by decorum and adherence to the rule of law.
“As an indigene of Osogbo, an elder statesman, and a member PDP of BoT, I strongly condemn the tragic loss of lives and destruction of property that have accompanied this ugly development,” he said.
Alabi said that the crisis could have been avoided, had the warnings by Gov. Ademola Adeleke to all political gladiators to desist from actions that could destabilise the state was heeded to.
According to him, the judiciary remains the legitimate arbiter of electoral disputes, and its decisions, whether in favour of one party or the other must be pursued through lawful means.
“Any grievances must be addressed within the legal framework, and under no circumstances should individuals take the laws into their hands.
“The resort to brute force by political actors seeking to impose their aspirations is highly condemnable and must be rejected by all well-meaning people.
“At this critical juncture, I implore the Federal Government and all relevant security agencies to continue to intervene and restore order in Osun State,” he stated.
Freedomonline reports that there was tension between the APC and PDP following the Court of Appeal’s ruling on the sacked APC chairmen and councillors.
Crisis erupted on Monday as both parties claimed the control of local government secretariats across the state leading to death of six people and scores injured.
