The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State has raised concerns over alleged attacks and acts of violence following the recent election in the state, calling on the police and other security agencies to take urgent steps to protect residents and prevent further escalation.
The party said the reported incidents had created tension in some communities and expressed concern that continued violence could threaten peace and public safety.
In a statement, the Osun APC urged the police to thoroughly investigate the alleged attacks, identify those responsible and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
The party maintained that political disagreements should not be allowed to degenerate into violence, stressing that all political actors have a responsibility to respect democratic processes and protect the lives and property of citizens.
The APC said it was particularly concerned about reports of attacks allegedly targeting its members and supporters in the aftermath of the election.
It called on security agencies to remain impartial in handling the situation and to ensure that complaints from all political parties are investigated without fear or favour.
According to the party, allowing alleged acts of violence to go unchecked could embolden perpetrators and create an atmosphere of fear among residents.
The APC therefore appealed to the Osun State Police Command to increase its presence in areas identified as potential flashpoints and take preventive measures to stop further attacks.
It also called on community leaders, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders to intervene by encouraging their followers to remain calm and avoid retaliatory actions.
The party stressed that political competition should end with the conclusion of the electoral process and that disagreements arising from elections should be addressed through lawful and constitutional channels.
The APC further urged its members and supporters to exercise restraint and avoid taking the law into their own hands, despite any grievances they may have.
The party said it remained committed to democratic principles and would pursue any complaints or grievances through appropriate legal and institutional channels.
The allegations come amid broader concerns over political violence in parts of Nigeria, particularly during periods surrounding elections when tensions between supporters of rival political parties can become heightened.
Security agencies have often faced pressure to maintain law and order during such periods while ensuring that citizens are allowed to exercise their rights without intimidation.
The Osun APC said the protection of citizens should remain the priority and urged the police to act swiftly before the situation deteriorates.
It also appealed to political leaders across party lines to caution their supporters against inflammatory statements and actions capable of provoking further violence.
The party maintained that peaceful coexistence among residents was more important than political differences, stressing that the state could not afford prolonged tension after the election.
As calls for investigation continue, residents and political stakeholders are expected to look to the security agencies for reassurance and decisive action.
The APC said it would continue to monitor developments and engage relevant authorities over the safety of its members and supporters.
It reiterated that anyone with evidence relating to the alleged attacks should make such information available to the appropriate security authorities rather than resorting to reprisal attacks.
The party expressed hope that timely intervention by the police and other stakeholders would restore confidence, prevent further incidents and ensure that political disagreements in Osun State remain within the bounds of the law.