Fresh concerns have emerged over security in Osun State following the death of an Accord Party supporter in Esa Oke and a fatal accident involving members of the All Progressives Congress during a campaign procession in Ede.
The incidents occurred as political parties intensified campaigns ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.
The Accord supporter, identified as Ajayi Aderogba, was reportedly shot dead by unknown assailants on Tuesday in Esa Oke, Obokun Local Government Area.
His death sparked tension in the community, with residents expressing fears over the growing political atmosphere as the election approaches.
Although details surrounding the attack remained sketchy, community sources said the deceased was involved in activities linked to a political programme organised in support of Governor Ademola Adeleke's re-election campaign.
The killing quickly generated controversy, with political actors trading accusations over the incident.
The spokesperson for the Imole Campaign Council, Pelumi Olajengbesi, alleged that efforts had been made to disrupt the planned political event before the attack occurred.
However, the Director-General of the APC Governorship Campaign Council, Oluwole Oke, dismissed any suggestion linking him or the party to the killing.
Through a statement issued by his media aide, Oke described the allegations as reckless and premature, insisting that only a thorough investigation by security agencies could establish the facts surrounding the incident.
He urged members of the public to avoid spreading unverified claims capable of escalating tensions in the state.
While reactions to the shooting were still ongoing, another tragedy struck in Ede when a truck crashed into APC supporters participating in a street mobilisation campaign for the party's governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji.
The accident claimed the life of AbdulRasaq Ahmed and left seven other campaigners injured.
Confirming the development, the Chairman of the Media and Publicity Committee of the Oyebamiji Campaign Organisation, Remi Omowaiye, said the injured victims were receiving medical attention, adding that one of them was in critical condition.
Witnesses alleged that the truck veered into the section of the road occupied by campaign supporters despite traffic control measures put in place by officials at the scene.
Reacting to the incident, the APC deputy governorship candidate, Benjamin Adereti, called on security agencies to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash and determine whether foul play was involved.
He also sympathised with the family of the deceased and wished the injured supporters a speedy recovery.
The separate incidents have heightened anxiety among residents and political stakeholders, raising fresh concerns about safety and security as campaigns enter a crucial phase ahead of the governorship poll.
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