The Network of Civil Society Organisations in Nigeria expressed concern on Friday over incidents of political thuggery in Ondo as the state prepares for its governorship election.

The national coordinator of the network, Victor Kalu, raised the alarm during a news conference organised to address some issues in the state.

The Ondo State governorship election is scheduled for November 16.

Mr Kalu said the political conflicts started after the death of Governor Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.

He said that, as expected, the political situation in the state will be tense, “especially true within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), where the power of incumbency insisting on a preferred candidate and successor is playing out.

“Based on our findings, we wish to state very categorically that the once peaceful political environment and the height of political tolerance across party lines have declined.”

Mr Kalu alleged that political thugs and garage boys are overtaking the state, describing the situation as worrisome.

“The recent introduction of violent and intimidating looking thugs within and around the state secretariats and in some local government party secretariats is worrisome.

“The safety of the entire state is in doubt. We are worried about the governor’s cold attitude,” said Mr Kalu.

He called security operatives to investigate and prosecute residents recruiting and deploying thugs.

“The development needs to be closely monitored and addressed.

“All aspirants, especially those in the ruling party, the APC, including the governor, should put the interests of the people above the personal and selfish political interests of governing the state by all means,” he said.

(NAN)