Condemnation trails killing of Ogun APC councillorship candidate

As Human Rights Watch laments history of electoral violence

Condemnations have trailed the killing of the All Progressive Congress (APC) councillorship candidate for Ward 15 in Abeokuta South, Mr. Adeleke Adeyinka, who was fatally shot on October 12, 2024, by gunmen in Oke Ilewo in Ogun State.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) learnt that the gunmen came in a tinted glass car, shot him, and later hit him with a stone before driving away from the scene of the incident.

This devastating incident occurred just weeks before the local government elections, scheduled for November 16, 2024.

Mr. Adeyinka was a member of APC, vying for a seat in the upcoming local government elections.

Photos of the incident were taken, and calm has been restored, while effort is ongoing to apprehend the escaping suspects, says the report.

APC youth forum leader condemns killing

The Ogun State APC youth forum leader, Mr. Kabir  Odedairo, strongly denounced the killing of Adeyinka, calling it a senseless and brutal act.

Mr. Odedairo as well as Mr. Timothy Odedina, the spokesman, condemned the brutal killing.

Further, he urged the authorities to promptly investigate and uncover the perpetrators and the motives behind the “senseless act”.

He sought justice and accountability for the crime.

He also emphasized on the need for a thorough probe to bring the culprits to book.

Odedairo said: “We strongly condemn this senseless and horrific act which has left our community shaken and grieving.

“The fact that Adeleke was shot and stoned to death by the unknown gunmen in a tinted car is particularly disturbing and warrants immediate attention from law enforcement agencies,” he stated.

While describing the deceased as a “promising young leader”, he called for a “thorough investigation” into his killing.

Odedairo continues: “As a Forum, we demand a thorough investigation into this brutal crime and call on the relevant authorities to ensure that justice is served.

“We also urge the police to increase patrols and security measures in the affected areas to prevent further violence,” the APC Youth Leaders’ Forum added.

Odedairo and Odedina on behalf of the forum, extended their deepest condolences to Adeleke’s family, friends, and colleagues.

Adeleke’s contributions to the Ogun State youth leaders’ forum will not be forgotten.

He noted that his untimely death is a loss to the entire youth community in Ogun State.

History of electoral violence

This incident highlights the growing concerns about election violence and security in Nigeria.

The country has a history of electoral violence.

The 2019 election is no exception as it was marred by violence from security forces and thugs acting on behalf of politicians.

Human Rights Watch has expressed concerns about the lack of accountability for past election-related abuses and the widespread insecurity across the country.

It stressed that the upcoming elections are crucial, and ensuring the safety and security of candidates, voters, and election officials is paramount.

It encouraged Nigerian authorities to take swift action to investigate this incident and provide adequate security measures to prevent further violence.

Reporter: Chukwu Gift

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