A recent fatal shooting in Ilobu, Osun State, involving the death of 14-year-old Ezekiel Olapade, has ignited a sharp dispute between the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Imole Campaign Council. The teenager was killed on Sunday near the Irepodun Local Government Secretariat, where another individual also sustained injuries.
The APC, through its media director Kola Olabisi, condemned Governor Ademola Adeleke for allegedly turning his visit to the grieving family into a political rally. The party criticized the governor for making what they deemed inappropriate political remarks and for preemptively blaming the opposition before police investigations were complete. They argued that these actions were unprofessional for a state executive.
Conversely, the Imole Campaign Council, represented by spokesperson Pelumi Olajengbesi, rejected these claims. They accused the APC of manipulating the tragedy for partisan gains. The council emphasized that political violence poses a significant threat to democracy and urged all parties to prioritize peace over division. Furthermore, they called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure impartial security for all citizens, asserting that political power should be earned through public support rather than intimidation.
The father of the deceased, Gbenga Olapade, stated that his son was struck by a bullet while helping his mother during the chaotic incident. He further alleged that armed individuals fired shots near his wife’s palm wine bar while nearby security personnel reportedly failed to act.
