Senator Folarin Demands Thorough Probe Into Alleged Shooting at APC Unity Rally in Ogbomoso: Upholding Peace, Justice & Democratic Integrity 🕊️🇳🇬
In a compelling political development in Oyo State, Senator Teslim Kolawole Folarin, the Oyo State leader of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors and former Senate Leader, has publicly urged a comprehensive investigation into reports that a commercial motorcyclist was allegedly shot during the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) Unity Rally in Ogbomoso on Monday, January 5, 2026.
This call for investigation comes amidst efforts by the APC to strengthen grassroots support and unity ahead of the 2027 general elections, which the party hopes will return it to greater political influence across Nigeria.
📰 Background: The Unity Rally in Ogbomoso
Earlier this week, stakeholders and members of the APC gathered at Soun Ogunlola Hall, Oja’gbo, Ogbomoso, for what has been described as a large-scale Unity Rally and mobilisation event. The primary purpose of the rally was to endorse President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the party’s sole presidential candidate for the 2027 elections and to mobilise grassroots supporters across Oyo State.
The rally was widely reported as a show of force and solidarity, drawing notable party figures, elected officials, former officeholders, and grassroots mobilisers. Attendees also included hundreds of defectors from other political parties who were warmly welcomed into the APC fold, amplifying the spirit of unity and growth.
Party leaders reiterated the APC’s commitment to fostering peace, cohesion, and strategic collaboration as they prepared to challenge both the opposition and broader political landscape, especially as they aim to reclaim Oyo State in the upcoming elections.
📍 Senator Folarin’s Response: A Call for Accountability
Reacting to circulating claims about an alleged shooting incident at the rally, Senator Folarin emphasised that neither the Renewed Hope Ambassadors, the APC, nor the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu tolerate violence, lawlessness, or misconduct before, during, or after political events.
According to Folarin:
The unity rally was peaceful, orderly, and successfully concluded, with no officially recorded incident of violence at the venue.
Despite the absence of formal records of violence, the seriousness of the allegations warranted a full and impartial inquiry by relevant security agencies to establish the facts.
If any individual — regardless of political affiliation or status — is found culpable of unlawful conduct, they must be prosecuted in accordance with the law.
The senator highlighted that criminality has no place in the APC, its events, or Nigeria’s democratic processes.
These statements underscore the importance of upholding the rule of law, accountability, and protection of life and property in political activities — especially during a period of heightened political mobilisation across the country.
⚖️ Why a Probe Matters: Peace, Trust & Democratic Stability
🛡️ Protecting Lives and Upholding Justice
Allegations of shootings or violence at political gatherings — even if unverified — can fuel public fear, erode confidence in democratic institutions, and stoke political tensions. Folarin’s insistence on a transparent investigation aims to:
Confirm what really happened and clarify misinformation or speculation;
Hold accountable any individuals found to have breached the law;
Reaffirm the APC’s commitment to peaceful political engagement;
Send a clear message that violence has no place in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
🤝 Strengthening Public Trust in Security Agencies
By calling on relevant security agencies to lead the investigation, Folarin is advocating for independent and credible fact-finding — a move that reinforces public faith in law enforcement institutions and procedures.
This approach also serves as political reassurance to the public that governing authorities — regardless of party — are committed to transparency and justice, rather than denial or concealment.
📣 Avoiding Speculation and Politicisation
Senator Folarin also appealed to the public and media stakeholders to refrain from speculation or drawing premature conclusions while the investigation is ongoing. Political analysts and civic engagement experts often stress that sensationalising unverified incidents can lead to misinformation and heighten tensions unnecessarily.
In a democratic society, responsible reporting and public discourse are essential — particularly during politically charged periods leading up to national elections. Avoiding unverified narratives helps maintain national unity and political stability.
📊 Context: Broader Political Momentum within APC
The unity rally in Ogbomoso was part of a broader set of activities by the APC to consolidate support across key regions in Nigeria, especially as the party seeks to regain ground ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In Oyo State, the APC has been actively mobilising stakeholders, endorsing President Tinubu for re-election, and encouraging party cohesion and grassroots engagement. These efforts reflect a strategic push that combines political mobilisation, endorsement drives, and policy messaging, all aimed at shaping public perception and electoral outcomes.
Political unity — especially among party leaders and grassroots supporters — remains a critical factor for success in competitive elections, with leaders like Senator Folarin calling for both peaceful engagement and robust mobilisation.
🧭 Looking Ahead: Elections, Unity & Democratic Engagement
As Nigeria approaches a significant electoral cycle, peaceful political mobilisation is not just a procedural requirement — it’s a foundation for democratic legitimacy and civic trust. Senator Folarin’s stance reflects this principle by:
Promoting peace and order during political events;
Championing due process and lawful conduct;
Advocating for transparent accountability where concerning allegations arise;
Encouraging citizens to stay informed yet cautious about unverified narratives.
This balanced approach reinforces the idea that a truly vibrant democracy thrives not on silence or suppression but on open inquiry, truth-seeking, and respect for democratic norms.
🏁 Conclusion: A Call for Unity, Peace & Accountability
The call for a thorough probe by Senator Teslim Folarin into the alleged shooting at the APC unity rally in Ogbomoso is more than a political statement — it is a demand for justice, transparency, and democratic integrity in Nigeria’s political process.
In times of rising political temperatures and competitive elections, such appeals for peace, accountability, and responsible public discourse are not just prudent; they are essential to safeguarding democratic values and ensuring that every citizen’s trust in public institutions is preserved.
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