By Peace Erewunmi

The Osun State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has commended the Nigeria Police Force for thwarting an alleged assassination attempt on the Director-General of its governorship campaign council, Hon. Wole Oke, while calling for a comprehensive investigation to identify and prosecute everyone connected to the incident.

The alleged attack reportedly occurred on June 30, 2026, shortly after Wole Oke concluded a political engagement in Ipetu-Ijesa. According to the Osun State Police Command, a group of suspected political thugs allegedly blocked the exit route of Oke’s convoy, and one of the suspects was said to have drawn a Beretta pistol loaded with four rounds of live ammunition before he was swiftly subdued by the Divisional Police Officer at the scene. The prompt intervention prevented what police described as a potentially fatal incident.

Following intelligence-led operations, the police arrested three suspects identified as Olamilekan Oriyomi, Ayotunde Ikupolati, and Femi Fakinleye. Security operatives also recovered the alleged firearm and ammunition used in the attempted attack. The police disclosed that investigations are ongoing to apprehend additional suspects, including the individual alleged to have supplied the weapon.

Reacting to the development, the Osun APC praised the professionalism and timely response of the police, stating that the swift action of security personnel prevented a major tragedy. The party described the operation as evidence that intelligence-driven policing can help curb political violence and safeguard democratic activities.

The party, however, urged the police not to stop at the initial arrests. It called for a thorough investigation aimed at uncovering the full circumstances surrounding the alleged assassination plot, including identifying anyone who may have sponsored, financed, or coordinated the attack. According to the APC, bringing all those responsible to justice is necessary to deter future acts of political violence.

The Osun State Police Command reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining law and order as political activities intensify ahead of the state’s governorship election. Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan said the command remains determined to combat cultism, political thuggery, and other violent crimes through proactive and intelligence-led operations. He assured residents that anyone found culpable after investigations would face the full weight of the law.

Political observers have continued to express concern over rising tensions associated with electioneering in parts of the country, emphasizing the need for political actors and their supporters to conduct campaigns peacefully and in accordance with the law. They also urged security agencies to remain impartial while ensuring the safety of all participants in the democratic process.

As investigations continue, the APC reiterated its confidence in the police while calling on all political stakeholders in Osun State to reject violence and embrace peaceful democratic engagement ahead of the forthcoming governorship election.