Osun State Government faces backlash for denying APC committee venue for Sen. Ajibola Basiru’s Celebration

The decision by the Osun State Government to deny the Osogbo/Olorunda/Irepodun/Orolu Federal Constituency Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) the use of Freedom Park for an event to celebrate Senator Ajibola Basiru’s emergence as the National Secretary of APC has sparked outrage and accusations of political bias.

The committee, representing the ruling party at the federal level has called the move hostile, malicious, and an abuse of state power.

The event Scheduled for August 19, 2023, was set to honour Senator Ajibola Basiru, a prominent figure in the All Progressives Congress. The committee claims that despite payment being accepted by the management of Freedom Park, the state government has intervened to prevent the event from taking place.

in a statement made available to journalists today the committee argue that this decision contradicts the core principles of democracy, which emphasise equal and unhindered access to public facilities for all citizens, regardless of their political or religious affiliations. The APC’s assertion is that the denial of access raises concerns about the state government’s commitment to these democratic values.

Freedom Park, originally conceptualised by the APC government, was intended for the benefit of the people of Osun State. The committee believes that the state government’s refusal not only goes against transparent governance but also disrupts efforts to foster inclusiveness and unity in the region. This move is seen by many as a manifestation of political discord and an excessive exercise of executive power.

The committee therefore called upon Governor Jackson Adeleke to reconsider the decision and allow the event to proceed as planned.