The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed Governor Ademola Adeleke’s allegations of political persecution against President Bola Tinubu and the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Alhaji Gboyega Oyetola, describing the claims as “misplaced” and “frivolous.”
The party made the remarks in a statement issued on Tuesday by its Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, in response to comments made by Governor Adeleke during a campaign rally in Osogbo on Monday.
At the rally, Adeleke alleged that President Tinubu and Oyetola were behind what he described as political persecution against his administration ahead of the August 15 governorship election. He also accused the police of compromise, alleged that state funds were being withheld and urged his supporters to protect their votes.
Reacting, the APC said the governor’s allegations were an attempt to justify what it described as his impending defeat at the polls.
“The allegations of political victimisation against President Tinubu and Oyetola are misplaced and frivolous,” the party said, adding that Adeleke’s comments amounted to “shedding crocodile tears” ahead of the election.
The opposition party also accused the governor of fuelling political violence in the state, alleging that his administration had provided protection and appointments to political thugs. It further questioned the recent grant of amnesty to some inmates, alleging that the decision was politically motivated.
The APC, however, did not provide evidence to substantiate the allegations contained in the statement.
The party also faulted Adeleke’s remarks on security, arguing that as the state’s Chief Security Officer, he should take responsibility for maintaining peace rather than accusing political opponents.
On Adeleke’s claim that his administration had performed well in office, the APC said the August 15 governorship election would provide an opportunity for voters to assess his record.
The party maintained that its governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (AMBO), remained well-positioned to win the election, expressing confidence that the APC would emerge victorious at the polls.
