The campaign organisation of Senator Sharafadeen Alli, the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate in Oyo State, has alleged a plot to destroy and deface his campaign billboards and posters across Ibadan. This allegation was made by Bisi Oladele, the Director of Media and Publicity of the Sharafadeen Alli Campaign Organisation. According to Oladele, the organisation received credible intelligence about the alleged plan.
The alleged plan was reportedly discussed at a meeting held in the Gbagi area of Ibadan, targeting Egbeda, Ibadan North East, Lagelu, and Akinyele local government areas. Oladele called on security agencies to investigate the alleged plot and ensure the protection of lives, property, and campaign materials. The allegations were also reported by local media outlets on September 18.
The campaign organisation urged the Oyo State Government and security agencies to take steps to prevent any possible act of vandalism or breakdown of law and order. This development has raised concerns about the security situation in the state ahead of the 2027 governorship election. The Alli campaign organisation's allegations have been reported to the relevant authorities.
The Allied Peoples' Movement (APM) has denied the allegation, describing it as false and urging the campaign organisation to desist from what it described as inflammatory claims. In a statement, the Oyo State APM Presidential/Governorship Apex Campaign Council said it had no interest in vandalising opponents' billboards or posters.
The APM maintained that its campaign was focused on peaceful political participation and adherence to democratic norms. The party said it had built its reputation on peaceful mobilisation, disciplined engagement, and respect for democratic norms. The APM also urged the Alli campaign organisation to refrain from allegations that could heighten political tension in the state.
The exchange comes amid increasing political activity in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 governorship election, with political parties and their candidates intensifying campaigns and public mobilisation across the state. The 2027 election is expected to be a closely contested one, with various political parties vying for the top seat.
The situation remains under close watch, with stakeholders calling for a peaceful and fair electoral process. The Alli campaign organisation and the APM have been engaging in various campaign activities, with the two parties exchanging allegations and counter-allegations.
Key points
- The Alli campaign organisation has alleged a plot by some individuals linked to the APM to vandalise his campaign billboards and posters.
- The APM has denied the allegation, describing it as false and urging the campaign organisation to desist from inflammatory claims.
- The exchange comes amid increasing political activity in Oyo State ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
