The ruling People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Osun State has issued a stern warning to an APC faction, credited with a rally tagged Atunto, over the alleged importation of thugs from Lagos and some other states for the said rally in Osogbo, the state capital.
While we acknowledge and respect the rights of individuals to gather and express their views through conferences and rallies as applicable in a democratic society, we emphasize the critical importance of conducting such events within the boundaries of the law and in line with the prevailing peace and security of Osun State.
In a statement by the Media office of the party and signed by the State Chairman, Hon. Sunday Bisi, on Thursday, the PDP cautioned Atunto conveners against any act of violence that could disrupt the peace and development of Osun State. The party stressed the imperative role of sustaining the hard-earned tranquility and progress under the PDP government of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
The statement reads in part, “It has come to our attention through reliable sources that a significant influx of individuals, purportedly affiliated with one Atunto rally, has been observed flooding the state through several ports of entry. Several identifiable Lagos buses filled with thugs have also been noticed coming to the state with the active support of a Lagos-based APC chieftain and NURTW kingpin.
“Osun State has been enjoying a period of tranquility and progress under the leadership of Governor Adeleke, and it is our collective responsibility to safeguard this hard-earned peace after a long period of violent APC regime. Any attempt to disrupt this peace for personal or political pursuit is unacceptable and will be sternly resisted within the dictates of the law.
“We implore characters in the Apc faction organizing the Atunto market dance, to conduct themselves only within the laws regulating lawful assembly, and take immediate and proactive measures to ensure that its members as well as their invited interstate guests uphold the civil rule of public assembly. Any breach of the peace, during or after such rally, now or in the foreseeable future, will be viewed strongly and culprits will be made to answer for their unlawful conduct.
“The responsibility to ensure a peaceful and lawful assembly falls upon the organizers and leaders involved in the rally as publicized. We therefore implore such leaders to assert their influence, if any, on their followers to adhere strictly to peaceful and lawful conduct during the Atunto whatever.”
“Furthermore, we call on the state police command and all relevant security agencies to be on high alert and take necessary steps within their professional intelligence, to prevent any unrest or violence as may be orchestrated during this period. Your cooperation in maintaining the peace and security of Osun State as collectively achieved thus far under Governor Ademola Adeleke, is paramount and non-negotiable under whatever guise. he concluded.
