Former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Saturday met with leaders of political parties and security chiefs in Ogun State, following the spiralling circus of violence during campaigns in the state and the attendant risks to lives and properties.
This came about 48 hours after the governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Dapo Abiodun and running mate, Engr. Noumot Oyedele – Salako, reportedly escaped alleged assassination plot when people suspected to be political thugs blocked their access way in Mokola area of Abeokuta, leading to a clash between the thugs and supporters of Abiodun, who battled to shield him from harm.
Obasanjo who met with some leaders of political parties at the Green Legacy Resort, Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library(OOPL) Abeokuta, warned them not to heat up the politics of the state but to strive towards ensuring peaceful polls before and during the general elections.
In attendance at the two – hours long private meeting were the quartet of the Action Democratic Party(ADP), African Democratic Congress(ADC), All Progressives Congress(APC) and the Allied Peoples Movement(APM).
The State Chairman of ADP Chief Wale Egunleti, who addressed reporters on behalf of the political parties present at the meeting, disclosed that the former Head of States, called orderly and peaceful campaign in the state ahead of the Presidential and governorship elections slated for February 16th and March 2nd respectively.
“Our father (Obasanjo) has called the political parties for a meeting to shun any act of thuggery, fighting, and any form of violence during and after the elections.
“We want to serve the people and we must lead by example. Therefore, we have been warned and advised to keep the peace in Ogun for the benefit of all,” Egunleti said.
