The Social Democratic Party (SDP) in Oyo State has cautioned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) against allowing political tensions to escalate into violence in the state.
The warning follows reports that the residence of former Oyo State Deputy Governor Hazeem Gbolarumi was attacked on Saturday during the PDP’s congress activities.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the state chairman of the SDP, Michael Okunlade, stressed the need to protect Oyo State’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most peaceful states, particularly as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections intensify.
Okunlade said the party became aware of the alleged incident through reports circulating on radio and social media on Saturday.
He urged political parties in the state to focus their campaigns on policies and programmes that address the needs of residents rather than engaging in confrontations.
“As preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum, we call on all political parties in Oyo State to centre their campaigns on meaningful discussions and policies that will benefit the people,” he said.
The SDP chairman also warned the PDP against actions that could destabilise the state’s peaceful atmosphere, urging the party to manage its internal activities in the interest of public safety.
He further called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to remain vigilant and prevent political actors from using their influence to provoke unrest.
Okunlade reaffirmed the SDP’s commitment to peace and unity among its supporters, urging party members to remain disciplined as the party prepares for the 2027 elections. He added that acts of indiscipline within the party would not be tolerated.
