The Oyo State APM Presidential/Governorship Apex Campaign Council has declared that “no amount of manufactured tension, reckless propaganda, or desperate political theatre” will derail its commitment to peaceful democratic engagement.
The council stated this while reacting to an allegation by the Sharafadeen Alli Campaign Organisation that some “APM/PMS elements” were planning to vandalise the campaign billboards and posters of Senator Sharafadeen Alli in parts of the state.
In a statement signed by its Media and Publicity Committee, the APM described the allegation as false, saying it was designed to provoke fear, smear the party and distract the public from the real issues facing Oyo State.
“We state without hesitation that this claim is a deliberate falsehood, crafted to provoke fear, smear our campaign, and distract the public from the real issues facing Oyo State. APM rejects this allegation completely and unequivocally,” the council said.
The party said its campaign had remained focused on peaceful mobilisation, disciplined political engagement and respect for democratic norms.
“APM has built its reputation on peaceful mobilisation, disciplined engagement, and respect for democratic norms. We do not destroy opponents’ materials, we do not sponsor thuggery, and we do not engage in violence,” it stated.
The council also urged the Sharafadeen Alli Campaign Organisation to desist from what it described as inflammatory claims capable of misleading the public or provoking unnecessary tension.
“Oyo State deserves a mature, respectful political atmosphere, not reckless allegations,” the statement added.
The APM further said its campaign remained committed to peaceful political participation, respect for all candidates and their supporters, adherence to electoral laws and the promotion of stability in the state.
It also rejected attempts to associate the party with political violence, saying APM would not allow itself to be dragged into what it described as a narrative of thuggery and intimidation.
The council said it would continue its campaign with “discipline and honour,” insisting that it would not be distracted by what it called “gutter politics.”
“APM is moving forward confidently, peacefully, and with the full conviction that the majority of the people of Oyo State are solidly behind our party and our candidates,” the statement said.
