The All Progressives Movement (APM) candidate for Oluyole Federal Constituency in Oyo State, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, has raised concerns over the destruction of his campaign billboards at strategic locations across the constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Olatunji alleged that individuals working for a candidate of an opposition party were responsible for the vandalism, describing the incidents as deliberate attempts to disrupt his political activities.
He has called on the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, CP Gbenga Abimbola, to intervene and caution political actors against actions capable of escalating tension in the state.
The candidate’s concerns followed reports of damage to campaign billboards along the Ayefele Music House axis of Challenge, near Fresh FM, around the Soka overhead bridge and in the vicinity of the Academy overhead bridge.
According to Olatunji, one of the billboards had previously suffered partial damage before being completely destroyed, raising concerns about what he described as a possible pattern of political intimidation.
He urged security agencies to investigate the incidents, identify those responsible and ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable under the law.
The APM candidate also called on political parties and their supporters to respect democratic principles and allow candidates to campaign without fear of harassment or destruction of their materials.
He maintained that political competition should be based on policies, public engagement and the ability of candidates to address the needs of their constituents rather than acts of vandalism.
Olatunji appealed to his supporters to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing the importance of preserving peace as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 elections.
The allegations have not, on the information available, established the identity of those responsible for the damage. An independent investigation would be necessary to determine the circumstances surrounding the incidents.
Political parties and security agencies face increasing pressure to ensure that campaigning remains peaceful and that disputes are addressed through lawful channels as preparations for the next general election continue.