A disturbing incident has unfolded in Ondo State, Nigeria, where a local politician is alleged to have been attacked by a senior aide to the governor. The Forum of Ward Chairmen of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akure South Local Government has expressed concern over the alleged assault on Oluwadare Olanrewaju, chairman of Ward 8, by Oluwafemi Fadairo, Senior Special Assistant to Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on Community Engagement.
According to sources, the altercation occurred over the distribution of funds allocated to the ward during the governor’s thank-you tour. Fadairo, who is also a House of Representatives aspirant, allegedly insisted that Olanrewaju include the names of his loyalists on the beneficiary list, but the ward chairman refused. The situation escalated, and Olanrewaju was reportedly beaten to the point of unconsciousness and is now in a coma.
The ward chairmen’s forum has condemned the incident, describing it as “barbaric and shameful,” particularly given Fadairo’s connection to the governor’s office. The matter has been reported to the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Zone 17, Akure. The forum emphasized that leadership should protect people, not endanger them, and that anyone promoting violence is unfit for public office.
Fadairo has denied the allegations, stating that the claims are fabricated to tarnish his image due to his political ambition. He maintained that he never touched or beat Olanrewaju, and that the accusations are an attempt to weaken his political structure. The incident has significant implications for the political landscape in Ondo State, highlighting concerns about violence and intimidation in the lead-up to elections.
The APC ward chairmen’s forum has called for accountability and action to be taken against those responsible for the alleged attack. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for political leaders to promote peaceful and respectful engagement, rather than resorting to violence and intimidation. As the investigation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the situation will be addressed and what consequences will be faced by those involved.
