The tragic death of Mrs. Taliat Simbiat during the Accord Party primaries in Iwo has ignited a fresh political storm in Osun State. The incident has drawn reactions from Governor Ademola Adeleke, the Accord Party, and the All Progressives Congress (APC), who have all condemned the violence but traded accusations over its cause and the prevalence of thuggery.
Governor Adeleke expressed his condolences to the bereaved family, calling the incident deeply painful. In a statement from his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor praised the generally peaceful conduct of the primaries across the state and urged politicians to embrace non-violent engagement. He described the deceased as a key supporter of his administration in Iwo and environs.
Adeleke rejected APC allegations that his government shields thugs, insisting that his political career has been defined by a commitment to peace and stability. He accused his opponents of twisting well-known facts to score political points.
The Osun chapter of Accord also condemned the violence and extended sympathy to the Simbiat family. Party chairman Pastor Victor Akande noted that over 99% of the primaries were conducted peacefully, calling the Iwo incident an isolated event that does not reflect the party’s nature. He added that investigations are ongoing and expressed confidence that the truth will emerge. Accord dismissed claims that it harbors thugs, emphasizing its dedication to lawful political activities.
On the other hand, the APC Governorship Campaign Council presented a starkly different narrative. In a statement by its Head of Media and Publicity, Engr. Oluremi Omowaiye, the APC alleged that the primaries were marred by widespread violence, injuries, and property destruction. The party claimed that Simbiat died amidst the chaos in Iwo Local Government Area. It called for a thorough investigation and urged Governor Adeleke to cooperate with law enforcement to bring those responsible to justice.
While Adeleke and Accord maintain their stance against violence and thuggery, the APC insists on accountability and transparency in the probe of the incident.