…APC Secretary Urges IGP to Investigate Threats
…Adeleke Dismisses Allegations, Claims Support of Osun Residents
A viral video of Kazeem Akinleye, the Chief of Staff to Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, has stirred widespread outrage after he allegedly threatened residents unwilling to support the governor’s second-term bid in 2026.
The video, reportedly recorded at an event in Ede, Adeleke’s hometown, shows Akinleye addressing a crowd in Yoruba. While highlighting Governor Adeleke’s achievements, Akinleye made controversial remarks, stating:
“By February, there should be no voting. We should be dancing and celebrating. When it’s time for my boss’s second term in 2026, if anyone refuses to vote or come out due to political affiliations, such people should relocate to Cotonou. They shouldn’t remain in Ede that day.”
The comments have sparked condemnation from the opposition, particularly the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Senator Ajibola Basiru, the APC National Secretary, criticized the remarks as inflammatory and dangerous, warning that they could incite violence and disrupt the peace.
“Osun people are peaceful and will not be intimidated by a government that has failed to deliver on its promises. These statements reflect fear of electoral accountability due to the administration’s incompetence,” Basiru said.
He also accused the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-led government of neglecting youth empowerment programs and failing to address teacher shortages in public schools.
Basiru urged the Inspector General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to summon Akinleye for questioning over his remarks.
Similarly, Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal condemned Akinleye’s comments, describing them as undemocratic and unbecoming of a public official.
“Akinleye’s statement is disgraceful and shows he is unfit for his role,” Lawal stated.
In response, Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, defended Akinleye, dismissing the allegations as baseless.
“The Chief of Staff and the governor have never threatened violence. These accusations are politically motivated and unfounded, especially given the overwhelming goodwill and support the Adeleke administration enjoys in Osun,” Rasheed said.
The controversy has reignited political tensions in the state ahead of the 2026 elections, with both sides exchanging accusations over the administration’s performance and governance approach.
