The Ogun State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) administration of using state power to harass, intimidate and suppress opposition activities. PDP State Chairman, Dr Abayomi Tella, made the allegations on Thursday in Abeokuta. He cited the disruption of the party's Ogun East Senatorial District campaign flag-off on September 16, 2026, and an alleged attack on the party's campaign convoy at Ososa, Odogbolu Local Government Area.
According to Tella, the PDP had obtained approval to use a venue at Idowa and paid ₦170,000 into a community account. However, the party was informed hours before the event that it could no longer use the venue. The PDP chairman said this forced the party to relocate the campaign activity to Odogbolu. Tella claimed that individuals prevented the party's campaign train from passing through parts of Idowa, claiming they had instructions from the traditional ruler.
The situation deteriorated at Ososa, where the last batch of vehicles in the campaign train was allegedly attacked with gunshots, stones and other weapons. Tella claimed that several vehicles were vandalised and some PDP members sustained injuries during the incident. He further alleged that the matter was reported at the police station, but expressed concern that PDP members who were victims and complainants were subsequently arrested.
Tella said between five and six party members were in police custody as of the time of the briefing, while others were allegedly being sought. He called on the Nigeria Police Force to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation into the incident and establish those responsible. The PDP chairman particularly called for an investigation into the firearms allegedly used during the attack.
The allegations have been met with a different account from the APC. The Ogun State APC Publicity Secretary, Olufemi Nuberu, had earlier called for an investigation into reported sporadic shooting during the incident, alleging that security personnel attached to PDP governorship candidate Ladi Adebutu were involved. The APC said anyone found culpable should be held accountable.
Tella also accused the state government and relevant agencies of denying the party access to billboard spaces for its governorship candidate, alleging that other political parties had been allowed to erect billboards across the state. He specifically mentioned the Ogun State Signage and Advertising Agency (OGSAA), saying the PDP had notified the relevant authorities but was still being denied access.
The PDP chairman dismissed suggestions that the developments could destabilise the party, insisting that its members remained united ahead of the 2027 elections. Tella appealed to the police to “act with conscience” and ensure that the circumstances surrounding the Idowa and Ososa incidents were thoroughly investigated.
Key points
- The Ogun State PDP has accused the ruling APC of harassment and intimidation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
- The incidents occurred during the PDP's Ogun East Senatorial District campaign flag-off and an alleged attack on the party's campaign convoy.
- The PDP has called for a thorough investigation into the incidents and for those responsible to be held accountable.
