The governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Oyo State, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke, has issued a strong warning to political leaders and their supporters against scaring voters away through political thuggery, violence, and inflammatory statements as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
Speaking to journalists on Friday, October 16, 2026, in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, Adegoke stressed that victory at the polls cannot be achieved through party members alone, warning that disenfranchising ordinary citizens through fear will weaken democratic governance.
Addressing reporters during a media briefing, Adegoke urged political gladiators across party lines to exercise restraint in their rhetoric and ensure campaign strategies focus on governance solutions rather than physical or verbal attacks.
“Anytime I go out for campaign, I don’t go out with thugs. I don’t like violence, I don’t support violence. I preach peace always,” Adegoke stated. “We should talk to our supporters, our followers to allow peace to reign. We should not scare away the electorate because without them we cannot win elections. We cannot win an election with our party members alone; we need the people.”
He added,”If our youth are fully engaged, they will not be available for thuggery and violence. I want to appeal to my colleagues, that we should not allow people to turn Oyo State into an avenue for attacks, an avenue for thuggery, where hoodlums will reign supreme. We don’t want that in Oyo State. Our campaign should be issue-based. We should not incite the people. We should measure what we say. Tell the electorate what you want to do and let them judge you.”
Adegoke’s admonition comes amidst heightened concern over recent security breaches in parts of Ibadan. A clash occurred at Molete, Ibadan, involving political hoodlums and Accord Party supporters, leaving one person dead, several injured, and causing panic among local traders and commuters. The All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state had also raised alarms over alleged attacks on its political convoys in recent weeks.
Reiterating his commitment to peaceful electioneering, the ADC standard-bearer explained that his gubernatorial blueprint is encapsulated in his Nine-Point ‘SOLUTIONS’ Agenda, which prioritises youth empowerment, economic renewal, security, and sustainable development across Oyo State. He challenged other candidates to present clear policy blueprints and avoid hate speech.
