The Omoluabi Progressives Caucus of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has raised alarm over alleged threats to the life of former Minister of Interior, Mr. Rauf Aregbesola. Established in August 2023 in Ilesa, Osun State, with Aregbesola as its grand patron, the group claims that Aregbesola’s safety is at risk due to recent developments.

Tensions between Aregbesola and Adegboyega Oyetola, his successor as governor, have escalated since Oyetola assumed office in 2018. The rift deepened in 2022 when Oyetola, seeking re-election, failed to garner Aregbesola’s support. Aregbesola instead backed Mr. Moshood Adeoti, his former cabinet member, for the position.

In a statement signed by the caucus’ Organising and Publicity Secretary, Oluwaseun Abosede, the group cited an article by Ismail Omipidan, media aide to Oyetola, as evidence of the perceived threat to Aregbesola’s life and freedom. The article suggested that Aregbesola’s political actions could endanger him.

The caucus urged state security agencies to investigate Omipidan’s statement and prevent any harm to Aregbesola. They highlighted previous attacks on Aregbesola and his supporters as evidence of the seriousness of the situation.

However, Omipidan dismissed the allegations, describing them as malicious and baseless. He emphasized his long-standing career in journalism without any history of political violence. Omipidan expressed readiness to defend himself against any false accusations and called for security operatives to remain vigilant.

The escalating tensions between the two factions within the APC in Osun State underscore the need for careful scrutiny and dialogue to prevent further conflict.