A prominent youth group within the Ogun State chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Òmìnira Ọ̀dọ́ Vanguard, has issued a strong condemnation of the arrest of Mr. Asaolu Gafar, a PDP member and supporter of Hon. Ladi Adebutu.
Mr. Gafar was detained by the Ogun State Police Command over allegations of his involvement in violence during the recently concluded local government elections.
According to rumours spread by the APC, Mr. Gafar is accused of leading an attack on Hon. Muhammed Olaitan Efuwape, an All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate.
However, the Vanguard has dismissed these claims as baseless, labeling them a politically motivated attempt to suppress opposition voices.
In a press release signed by its convener, Coker Oluwapelumi Emmanuel, the Òmìnira Ọ̀dọ́ Vanguard described Mr. Gafar as a peaceful and vibrant political activist who has consistently championed the development of Ogun State.
The group accused the APC-led administration of exploiting state resources to persecute PDP members while failing to address the pressing security challenges in the state.
The group further criticized the arrest as part of a broader smear campaign aimed at tarnishing the image of the PDP and distracting the public from what it termed “the governance failures” of the APC.
Vanguard’s Demands
The Òmìnira Ọ̀dọ́ Vanguard issued the following demands:
The immediate release of Mr. Asaolu Gafar.
An end to the persecution and media trial of PDP members.
A redirection of government efforts toward improving security in Ogun State rather than targeting political opponents.
The group reiterated its support for Hon. Ladi Adebutu, highlighting his commitment to justice, equity, and the security of all Ogun State citizens. It also expressed sympathy for victims of electoral violence and reaffirmed its mission to defend democracy and promote youth inclusion in governance.
In its statement, the Òmìnira Ọ̀dọ́ Vanguard vowed to remain resolute in ensuring justice prevails and protecting democratic values in Ogun State.
Òmìnira Ọ̀dọ́ Vanguard is a youth-driven movement within the PDP, committed to advancing youth participation in governance and fostering a better Ogun State.
