NPA director decries political violence in Osun

The Executive Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority, Olalekan Badmus, has expressed concern over what he described as escalating wave of politically motivated violence across Osun State, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to democracy and peaceful coexistence.

Badmus, in a statement on Saturday, condemned all forms of violence, saying no political ambition, partisan interest or electoral contest should result in the loss of lives or the harassment of innocent citizens.

He described the “rising political attacks” in the state as dangerous assault on the democratic values and culture of peace for which the people of Osun are known, stressing that violence had no place in a democratic society.

According to him, the increasing resort to violence by political actors undermines public confidence in the electoral process and endangers the stability of the state.

Political violence is unacceptable and must be condemned by all well-meaning citizens. No partisan interest, electoral ambition or political rivalry justifies the spilling of blood or the intimidation of innocent people.

“Violence is not politics. It is the negation of politics. When individuals raise their hands against fellow citizens in the name of party supremacy, they betray not only the people they claim to represent but also the very democratic process they seek to benefit from,” he said.

Badmus called on security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force, the Department of State Services and other relevant authorities, to act swiftly and impartially in investigating reported incidents and bringing perpetrators to justice.

He said those responsible for sponsoring, encouraging or participating in political violence must be identified and prosecuted in accordance with the law.

The NPA director warned that allowing perpetrators to act with impunity could embolden others and further erode public trust in democratic institutions.

“I call on security agencies to act with urgency, professionalism and impartiality in investigating reported incidents, prosecuting perpetrators and restoring confidence among the electorate.

“Impunity must not be allowed to become the operating standard of political competition in Osun State,” he added.

Badmus also appealed to youths in the state not to allow themselves to be used as instruments of violence by politicians pursuing selfish interests.

He urged them to reject actions capable of causing division and bloodshed, noting that their future and wellbeing were more valuable than any political agenda.

“I also charge our youths, who are the future of this land, not to allow themselves to be weaponised against their own brothers and sisters. Your lives are worth infinitely more than any political calculation. Choose peace. Choose dignity. Choose Osun,” he said.