Six individuals have been hospitalized following an attack by suspected armed thugs targeting members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Idanre, located in Idanre Local Government Area of Ondo State.
The violent incident took place just two days before the scheduled governorship election, raising concerns about pre-election violence.
A PDP chieftain, Adeyemi Fasoranti, identified one of the victims as Olowoniyi Akinleminu, a well-known politician in the area.
According to Fasoranti, other victims were rushed to the intensive care unit of the State Specialist Hospital, where they are currently receiving medical treatment.
Olowoniyi, one of the victims, explained that the attack was motivated by the success of the PDP’s rally in the local government, prompting the thugs to unleash violence against party members.
Another party leader, Bosede Salami, reported that many PDP members had been threatened by suspected political thugs and cultists allegedly brought in by local political figures.
The incident was confirmed by Ondo State Commissioner of Police, Oladipo Abayomi, who has directed the State Criminal Investigations Department (SCID) to conduct a thorough investigation.
In a statement released by the police command spokesperson, Funmilayo Odunlami-Omisanya, the commissioner noted that a peace meeting involving the leaders of major political parties in the area has been convened.
“The case, which has escalated into violence and attempted murder, is under investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice and peace is restored, especially during this crucial period,” the statement read.
Commissioner Abayomi emphasized the police command’s zero-tolerance stance towards any individual or group involved in activities that may disrupt the peace before, during, or after the election. He urged parents, community leaders, and influential figures to caution their followers against any disruptive behavior during the election period.