The death of Mrs. Taliat Simbiat during the Accord Party primaries in Iwo, Osun State, has triggered political tension, with Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Accord Party, and the All Progressives Congress (APC) exchanging blame over the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Governor Adeleke, in a Sunday statement through his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, expressed sorrow over the incident and extended condolences to the bereaved family. He described the death as painful and condemned any form of political violence, while noting that the Accord primaries were largely peaceful across most parts of the state.
He said Mrs. Simbiat was not only a party member but also a strong supporter of his administration in Iwo and its environs.
Adeleke also urged political actors to embrace peace and avoid actions that could lead to violence, stressing that politics should be about service rather than conflict. He further commended Accord Party members for what he described as a generally calm atmosphere during the primaries.
Responding to accusations from the APC that his administration was shielding political thugs, the governor denied the claims, insisting that he has consistently maintained a peaceful political disposition.
In a separate reaction, the Osun State chapter of the Accord Party also condemned the violence reported in Iwo and expressed condolences to the family of the deceased. The party described the incident as unfortunate, while maintaining that its primaries were largely peaceful across the state.
According to the party chairman, Pastor Victor Akande, more than 99 per cent of the exercise was successful, with only a minor incident recorded in Iwo that does not reflect the party’s overall conduct.
He added that investigations into the incident were ongoing and expressed confidence that the true circumstances would be established.
The party also dismissed allegations that it harbours political thugs, insisting it remains committed to lawful and peaceful political participation.
However, the APC Governorship Campaign Council gave a different account, alleging that violence erupted in several parts of the state during the primaries and led to injuries and property damage.
The APC also claimed that Mrs. Simbiat died as a result of the violence in Iwo and extended condolences to her family, while calling for a full investigation and prosecution of those responsible.
The opposition party urged Governor Adeleke to ensure accountability, insisting that the incident must not be ignored.
While the PDP-led government and Accord Party condemned political violence and maintained that the primaries were largely peaceful, the APC maintained that a thorough investigation is necessary to establish what truly happened.
