A distribution site for Permanent Voter’s Cards (PVCs) in Okuku, Odo-Otin local government area, was targeted by a group of armed individuals on Sunday. During the raid at Oyinlola DC Primary School, Ward 2, the assailants fired shots into the air, forcing election officials and residents to flee. The attackers managed to seize several packs of voter cards before disappearing from the scene.
Osun Police spokesperson DSP Abiodun Ojelabi confirmed the incident, stating that approximately ten armed men carried out the raid. Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan has officially condemned the violence and ordered a full investigation to track down the perpetrators.
Political tensions have flared following the event. Hon. Adewale Egbedun, Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating the attack, labeling it an assault on the democratic process. In response, APC campaign spokesperson Oluremi Omowaiye denied these claims, instead alleging that Egbedun himself hired the thugs to disrupt the distribution process. He further called on security services to detain the Speaker for questioning.
INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola acknowledged the breach but noted that her office is currently verifying the exact number of stolen cards. Despite the disruption, she reiterated the commission’s commitment to holding a transparent and credible election.
