…..Cautions against Anarchy.
PRESS STATEMENT
RISING THUGGERY IN ONDO: AGGA ACCUSES TOP AIDE OF GOV. AIYEDATIWA OF SPONSORING HOODLUMS
The Association for Good Governance Advocacy (AGGA), Ondo State Chapter, wishes to express its deep concern over the alarming resurgence of political thuggery, violence, and insecurity currently threatening the peace and stability of Ondo State.
As a non-partisan and pro-democracy advocacy group committed to good governance, peace, and the rule of law, AGGA strongly condemns the disturbing incidents of violence, attacks, and killings that trailed the recently concluded APC Ward Congress across the state.
We are particularly saddened by the reported violent attack on the Ondo State APC Chairman, Engr. Ade Adetimehin, which is not only an assault on his person but also a direct threat to democratic processes and political civility in the state.
AGGA also condemns in strong terms the tragic killing of two individuals in Idanre. This is an unfortunate development that has further heightened fear and tension among residents.
Similarly, we decry the reported attack on the residence of the former Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Hon. Saka Yusuf, describing it as unacceptable and a dangerous sign of political intolerance.
These recent incidents, which started on Tuesday reflect a troubling pattern of political violence that is gradually becoming normalised in Ondo State.
It is painful to note that many residents of the state had believed that political thuggery had become a thing of the past. For years, Ondo State enjoyed relative peace and was widely regarded as one of the most politically mature states in Nigeria. Sadly, recent events show that thuggery has finally been reintroduced into our political space.
AGGA laments this unfortunate return to a dark era, where political disagreement is no longer addressed through dialogue and lawful democratic engagement, but through intimidation, destruction of property, and loss of innocent lives.
We wish to state clearly that the current administration in Ondo State, led by Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, must take responsibility for the worsening climate of political violence. Aiyedatiwa’s leadership style shows that political thuggery is being encouraged and tolerated under the present government.
It will be recalled that during the 2024 APC governorship primary election, several party leaders who were perceived to be political opponents or supporters of other aspirants were reportedly brutalised and attacked. It was at that moment AGGA became convinced that political thuggery would have a free rein under the administration of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa if urgent measures were not taken.
Furthermore, AGGA has received disturbing reports that some of these hoodlums, who have been causing chaos, terrorising politicians, and allegedly perpetrating killings in the state, are being financed by a top aide of the Governor, who is reportedly a non-indigene.
While AGGA is not against the appointment of non-indigenes into government positions, as Yoruba states are known for inclusive governance and tolerance, we strongly oppose any situation where a non-indigene or anyone is allegedly sponsoring assassins, financing violence, and coordinating attacks against Ondo State indigenes who have historically shown hospitality and acceptance.
If truly such an individual believes he can destroy lives and property simply because he intends to leave the state after the tenure of his principal, then all well-meaning citizens must rise to speak out now, before Ondo State is turned into a war zone.
Ondo State must not be allowed to descend into anarchy.
AGGA therefore calls on all relevant security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services (DSS), and other security operatives, to immediately investigate these violent incidents, arrest the perpetrators, and expose and prosecute their sponsors, regardless of their political status or influence.
Ondo State belongs to all of us, and no political ambition is worth the blood of any citizen. AGGA will continue to stand firmly for peace, justice, accountability, and good governance.
Signed:
Mrs. Folakemi Benson
State Coordinator
Association for Good Governance Advocacy (AGGA), Ondo State
