A factional leader of the Accord Party, Prof. Chris Imumolen, has raised the alarm over an alleged threat to his life by supporters of the re-elected Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke.
Imumolen, who endorsed the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) a day before the governorship election in the state, said he sought no confrontation but justice.
He called the attention of the public to developments and circumstances which he said had caused him serious concern over his personal safety and that of members of his family.
He appealed to Governor Adeleke to use his influence to ensure that his associates, supporters and political followers refrain from any act of intimidation, harassment, threat or violence against him or anyone associated with him.
Imumolen said his appeal was made in the spirit of peace and responsibility, stressing that he did not seek confrontation with Adeleke or anyone else.
He explained that he was not an indigene of Osun State and that his interest in the state was mainly connected with his commitment to the development of the Accord Party, protection of its political interests and advancement of democratic values.
He said his political views and interventions should not be interpreted as a personal declaration of war against anyone.
Imumolen said he had a legitimate right, like every other Nigerian, to express his political opinions and participate in democratic activities without fear, intimidation or harassment.
He also clarified that he had not authorised anyone to engage in violence, threats or confrontation on his behalf.
According to him, political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, democratic processes and the rule of law.
He said he was putting the statement on public record as a precautionary measure following the concerns that had arisen.
Imumolen called on relevant security and law enforcement authorities to conduct an immediate, transparent and independent investigation if any harm came to him, any member of his family or anyone directly associated with him.
He said the investigation should establish the facts and identify whoever might be responsible.
Imumolen stressed that he was not accusing any individual of responsibility for any future incident, but was making the appeal because no political disagreement should become a justification for intimidation, violence or the endangerment of human life.
He called on Adeleke, his supporters and all political actors in Osun State to choose peace, restraint and democratic engagement.
Imumolen said he sought no war but justice, fairness, peace and the freedom to pursue the development of the Accord Party without intimidation or fear.