A viral video showing Kazeem Akinleye, Chief of Staff to Governor Ademola Adeleke, threatening violence against residents who refuse to vote for the governor’s second-term bid in 2026 has ignited widespread condemnation.
The video, which surfaced on Sunday, captures Akinleye addressing a crowd in Ede, Adeleke’s hometown, in Yoruba.
During his speech, he praised the governor’s achievements but made inflammatory remarks about individuals unwilling to support Adeleke’s re-election.
He stated: “In February, there shouldn’t be any vote… we should be dancing and rejoicing. When it’s time for my boss’s second term in 2026, if anyone says they won’t vote or refuses to come out of their house because of political affiliations, such a person should relocate to Cotonou. Let’s go find a room for them there. Such stubborn people shouldn’t remain in Ede that day.”
These remarks have drawn sharp criticism, especially from opposition parties like the All Progressives Congress (APC), who view the comments as divisive and inciteful.
Senator Ajibola Basiru, APC’s National Secretary, condemned the statements as provocative and potentially dangerous, warning that they could inflame tensions and encourage violence.
“Osun people are peaceful and will not be intimidated by a government that has failed to meet its promises. These comments reflect a fear of electoral judgment due to the administration’s poor performance,” Basiru remarked.
He also criticized the PDP-led government for not addressing critical issues such as youth unemployment and teacher shortages.
In response to Akinleye’s remarks, Basiru called on the Inspector General of Police and the Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS) to investigate and question Akinleye over his comments.
Osun APC Chairman Tajudeen Lawal also joined the backlash, calling the statement an embarrassment to democratic principles.
“His comments are disgraceful and demonstrate that he is unfit for his position,” Lawal said.
However, Governor Adeleke’s spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, defended Akinleye, describing the allegations as unfounded.
Rasheed insisted that both the governor and his chief of staff are committed to maintaining peace and that the administration enjoys strong support in the state.
“At no point did the governor or the Chief of Staff threaten violence. These allegations are completely baseless,” Rasheed said.
