Monitor political rallies to forestall violence, Oyo residents task police

Worried by reported instances of violent clashes among supporters of various political parties, Chairman, Ifelodun Omo-Igboho, Azeez Aderoju has called on security agencies to adequately monitor campaigns and other political activities so as to forestall violence and protect the lives of citizens.

Aderoju gave this admonition against the backdrop of reported stories of deaths stemming from the use of guns and other dangerous weapons at rallies by various political parties across the state.

He expressed disturbance that politics in the country was ridden with violence, noting that parties with progressive ideologies should shun acts that are retrogressive and do not foster the progress of the citizenry.

“We have summoned several meetings in the past to let politicians see reasons why they should embrace peace if truly they want to govern the people.

“We are disturbed about the recent loss of life at a political rally and I want to call on the government do everything possible to ensure that civilians do not carry arms and ammunition.

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“In fact, there should be full monitoring of political campaigns, rallies and all political activities in order to protect the lives of ordinary citizens.

“It is also important for the police to apprehend politicians arming thugs with weapons,” Aderoju said.

In the same vein, leader, Igboho Concerned Youth Forum, Ibrahim Oyewole, appealed to politicians and their supporters to desist from hooliganism, thuggery, maiming and killing under the guise of politicking.

Also speaking, Chairman, All Progressives Congress (APC) in Oorelope Local Government Area of Oyo State, Muhammad Wahab sued for violence-free electioneering campaigns urging supporters of political parties to desist from coming with arms, machetes and other dangerous weapons to political rallies.

Describing the ruling APC as “a progressive party that does not engage in acrimony, violence and fracas that can disrupt the peace of our community,” he said the APC regularly appealed to its members to eschew all forms of violence.

He, however, tasked security agencies to redouble its efforts by putting in place adequate measures to ensure a hitch-free electioneering process.

Speaking in the same vein, Secretary of APC, Oorelope LG, Mr Adeyinka Emmanuel described as baffling reports that dangerous weapons were bandied by supporters of politicians at political rallies.

He wondered why political rallies would go to the extent of guns and other dangerous weapons being brazenly used, all in their strive for political positions.

“In our party (APC), we represent peace and we value human lives. We urge all political parties to be patient and embrace peace for the progress and development of Igboho and Oorelope Local Government in general. We must believe that only God gives power to whomsoever he wishes,” Adeyinka said.