Osun Monarch Denies Alleged Calls For Electoral Violence

• “I Am A Man Of Peace” – Alapomu

A viral video allegedly depicting Oba Kayode Adenekan Afolabi, the Alapomu of Apomu, calling on Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) supporters to unleash violence against All Progressives Congress (APC) members has raised serious concerns about the role of traditional rulers in partisan politics.

The video, trending on social media, captured the monarch addressing PDP supporters in Yoruba, at a programme in Apomu, reportedly urging them to retaliate against APC members in the 2027 elections.

In the footage, Oba Afolabi allegedly makes a veiled reference to the violence that marred the 2023 elections and highlights the importance of PDP candidates using “any necessary means” to secure their positions.

The monarch’s words have been met with widespread condemnation, with many Osun residents expressing fears over potential unrest in upcoming elections.

Osun’s recent history has been marked by political violence, especially in the Osun West senatorial district, which includes Apomu and nearby Ikire. During the 2023 election cycle, this area saw kidnappings and brutal killings, including the tragic death of APC Ward executive Saheed Oyegunju, whose body was discovered after being abducted in broad daylight in Ikire. Such events have left a scar on the political landscape of the state, and many are alarmed by what they perceive as an incitement to further violence.

READ: Masqueraders’ Clash: Apomu, Ikire Sign Peace Accord After Police Intervention 

“It Is False, I Am A Man Of Peace” – Alapomu

However, the Alapomu has swiftly denied these allegations. In a press statement issued by his media aide, Mr. Tolu Adetunji, the monarch refuted the claims and maintained that his words were misinterpreted.

He said he never urged members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to attack supporters of the All Progressive Congress (APC) in the forthcoming 2027 election as alleged in the video.

He said there was nowhere in the video that he mentioned the 2027 election or APC.

“The allegation is false and fabricated. I am a man of peace. I do not encourage or support violence in any form or manner,” he said.