The national leadership of Accord has condemned the alleged assassination attempt on the party’s chairman in Osogbo LGA of Osun, Asimiyu Ajibola, describing it as barbaric and despicable.

The party’s national chairman, Maxwell Mgbudem, said in a statement that the attack was disturbing. Mr Mgbudem explained that two gunmen opened fire on a Toyota Corolla conveying Mr Ajibola and his associates in the MDS area of Osogbo on Wednesday.

He said Mr Ajibola sustained gunshot wounds during the attack and was rushed to Osun State University Teaching Hospital, Osogbo, where medical personnel are battling to save his life.

Mr Mgbudem condemned what he called politically motivated attacks against Accord members ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun.

“The attack is outrageous, barbaric, despicable and wicked. No democratic society should tolerate such acts of violence against political opponents,” he said.

While praying for Mr Ajibola’s speedy recovery, he called on God to preserve his life and reunite him with his family and loved ones.

Mr Mgbudem also called for a high-powered investigation by the police and the State Security Service to identify the perpetrators.

“We demand that the masterminds and sponsors of this assassination attempt be uncovered and made to face the full weight of the law,” he said.

Mr Mgbudem alleged that its members had repeatedly suffered political violence in the state, including attacks on campaign structures, billboards and party offices. He stated that security agencies had previously been alerted to threats against Accord members, adding, however, that they failed to prevent some of the attacks.

“Enough is enough of political violence. It is obvious that the ballot remains stronger than the gun in any democratic society,” he said.

Mr Mgbudem reiterated the party’s commitment to issue-based campaigns and peaceful political engagement ahead of the forthcoming governorship election in the state.

He also stated that the party would not be intimidated by anti-democratic forces, insisting that members remained committed to democratic principles and electoral participation.

Mr Mgbudem described Osun as one of its strongholds and expressed confidence in the leadership of Governor Ademola Adeleke, whom the party endorsed for a second term.

“Osun remains united in support of continued development, peace and prosperity across the state,” he said.

(NAN)