Tension flared in part of Oluyole Local Government Area of Oyo State on Tuesday after two billboards belonging to the Chairman of Oluyole LG, Akeem Olatunji, were vandalised by yet-to-be-identified persons.
The incident, which occurred late Monday night, affected two separate billboard structures located at the popular 7-Up Bus Stop and on top of the bridge at Olomi, in Oluyole Local Government Area.
Residents who spoke with the chairman, said the damage was discovered early Wednesday morning, with sections of the billboards torn apart and structural frames partially damaged.
The affected locations are known for heavy vehicular and pedestrian traffic, making the act more conspicuous.
Sources within the area described the development as unfortunate and provocative, noting that the billboards were recently mounted as part of public awareness and political engagement efforts.
Reacting to the incident, the executive chairman of the LG Akeem Olatunji, assured residents that efforts were underway to identify and apprehend those responsible.
“This is a dastardly act that should be condemned by all well meaning individual, group or political parties.
“It is our firm believe that Oyo politics has evolved and outgrown the dark era of vandalizing properties belonging to either private individuals or the public.
“Politics is now about ideas and results not violence. Why would any mentally healthy group of persons or party at this age and time do this sort of thing, are they so scared of our achievements that they have resorted to vandalism?
“I believe this is utterly ridiculous and disgusting to see, and I’ve directed our local security to do a thorough investigation. We hope to nab the perpetrators and make a scapegoat of this them,” Olatunji declared.
A local security official, said preliminary findings suggest the act was carried out under the cover of darkness during the night.
“We are already reviewing relevant information and speaking with individuals around the affected areas.
“Those behind this will soon be fished out and brought to book,” the source said.
Supporters of Olatunji at the scene also condemned the vandalism, calling on political actors in the council area to maintain decorum and resist actions capable of heating up the polity.
They urged residents to remain calm and avoid speculation while investigations continue.
However, Olatunji has reiterated his commitment to safeguarding lives and property across Oluyole and warned against any act capable of disrupting public peace.
