Tension has gripped Erin-Oke in Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State following allegations by the All Progressives Congress, APC, that some of its members were violently attacked during a political meeting, leaving several persons injured and raising fresh concerns over political violence ahead of the governorship election.

The APC, in a statement issued by its Erin-Oke Ward leadership, alleged that suspected hoodlums invaded a peaceful meeting of the party near Isunbe Junction and attacked members, including Hon. Omolebi-Sunday Segun Tunde.

The party alleged that the assailants were mobilised by some leaders and members of the Accord Party in the community, naming Odunayo Jimoh, Fowowe Fatai, Abimbola Fakankun and Dickson Awe.

According to the APC, Omolebi-Sunday narrowly escaped the attack after fleeing the scene for safety. It further alleged that his vehicle was vandalised, while the attackers carted away ₦2 million and other valuable personal belongings.

The party also claimed that several of its members sustained varying degrees of injuries and are receiving treatment at different health facilities.

In addition, the APC alleged that death threats were issued against Omolebi-Sunday and other party leaders, warning that the alleged threats, if not urgently addressed, could escalate political tension in the community.

The party called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to immediately investigate the incident, arrest those responsible and prosecute anyone found culpable in accordance with the law.

It also appealed to the Inspector-General of Police, the Commissioner of Police in Osun State and other security authorities to provide adequate protection for its members and residents of Erin-Oke.

The APC maintained that political competition should never degenerate into violence, intimidation or threats to life, stressing that democracy can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and respect for the rule of law.

The party, however, urged its members and supporters to remain calm, refrain from reprisals and allow security agencies to carry out their constitutional responsibilities.

As of the time of filing this report, the Accord Party and the Osun State Police Command had yet to issue official responses to the allegations.