Oyo State: Clash between APC and PDP in Oyo leaves several injured

The 2023 Nigerian governorship election is gradually becoming a battleground for political parties, as violence has erupted in some parts of the country, Oyo State is one of such state. According to reports from Ibadan, Oyo State, supporters of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and its main rival, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), clashed in ward 7 of Ibarapa East East Local Government Area, leaving several people wounded.

The clash occurred in the early hours of Saturday, as both parties were getting ready for the governorship election. Adeola Badru, a journalist based in Ibadan, reported that the violence started when some suspected supporters of the PDP allegedly attacked a bus carrying some people to the election ground. In a reprisal attack, some supporters of the APC reportedly traced the leaders of the attackers to their hideout, where a free-for-all ensued, leaving many people injured.

The situation is quite concerning as at least one of the wounded individuals is reportedly on the danger list at an undisclosed hospital in the town. This recent incident highlights the deep-rooted political tensions in the region and underscores the need for greater efforts to ensure peaceful and fair elections.

Elections are a fundamental pillar of democratic governance, and violence has no place in the electoral process. All political parties and their supporters must adhere to the principles of non-violence, respect for human rights, and the rule of law. It is essential that the government, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders work together to prevent such incidents from happening again.