The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Oyo State has suspended its campaign activities in Ibadan North Local Government scheduled for today, Thursday, August 8, in honour of the late Olubadan of Ibadanland, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Owolabi Olakulehin, Ige I, whose burial holds today.
In a statement by the Acting Publicity Secretary of the Party, Micheal Ogunsina, the PDP emphasized that the party holds in high esteem the legacies of Nigeria’s and Oyo State’s heroes, especially figures like the late monarch who dedicated his life to the service of the people.
“The PDP remains the party that honours the legacies of the country’s and state’s heroes and all individuals deserving of respect.
“It became imperative to suspend our campaign activities today to pay tribute to the memory and legacy of the late Olubadan, who lived a life of service to Oyo State and Nigeria,” the statement read.
However, the party took a swipe at the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing them of displaying gross insensitivity by proceeding with their campaign flag-off at Bodija Market on a day the entire city is mourning its revered monarch.
Ogunsina expressed disappointment that despite the burial date having been publicly announced weeks ago, the APC went ahead with its campaign activities, even in a location officially slated to close by 12 noon in honour of the late king.
“It appears everyone in Ibadan and beyond has chosen to honour the late Oba Olakulehin—except the APC. Earlier today, the party falsely claimed that the Governor had stopped them from using the Bodija Market for their campaign. Yet, they proceeded to hold their flag-off at the same venue this morning,” Ogunsina stated.
The PDP accused the APC of being driven by desperation, stating that the party’s actions reflect a disregard for tradition, culture, and the institution of royalty in Oyo State.
“We urge the people of Ibadan North and Oyo State at large to take note of these disrespectful acts. The APC’s disdain for our royal institutions is evident.
“Their desperation has blinded them to common decency, and we ask the people to reject them accordingly,” the statement continued.
The PDP also criticised Minister of Power, Chief Adebayo Adelabu, accusing him of attending political meetings while the burial rites of the late monarch were ongoing in his childhood neighbourhood.
“It is shameful that Oloye Adelabu allowed his political ambition to cloud his sense of judgment and disregard traditional etiquette expected of a true Ibadan son, let alone a chief.
“In contrast, the PDP candidate, Hon. Oyekunle Folajimi Don, was present to pay his last respects to the revered monarch,” the party noted.
The ruling party described the APC as “political jobbers” whose conduct lacks respect for the people and institutions of Oyo State.
“We would not have wasted our time on political jobbers who offer nothing but political robbery, anarchy, and disdain for our values. We believe the spirit of the Olubadan will not overlook this affront,” the PDP Acting Spokesman added.