Three shot as APC factions clash in Ekiti State

Opeyemi BamideleAt least three people were shot yesterday at Iyin Ekiti in a renewed clash between members of the All Progressives Congress, APC, loyal to Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi and those of the House of Representatives member, Hon. Opeyemi Bamidele.

The police that have been deployed to strategic locations in the community in their numbers said they had arrested about seven members over the crisis which began in the community on Friday evening. After the protest by party members loyal to the lawmaker over the alleged intimidation and attacks on their members and the lawmaker, the town became a ghost of itself when an armed tank and no fewer than eight police trucks rolled into town.

The lawmaker’s supporters said they were allegedly shot while the protesters were being dispersed. One Ola Fatokun, was said to have been shot in the hand; Rasaki Bello was shot in the stomach and Ige Adeola, was allegedly shot at the back.

All were said to be receiving treatment in an undisclosed hospital in Ado Ekiti.Streets, shops and markets in the community were deserted while bonfires were made on the ever busy road by the protesters, forcing motorists to make a detour.

Trouble began yesterday morning, when the supporters decided to protest the incessant attacks on them and the National Assembly member over his decision to run for the governorship election under the banner of the APC, alleging that the state government was culpable.

It will be recalled that a violent clash ensued between loyalists of the two APC chieftains last Friday during the burial reception for the late Chief Mrs. Felicia Akinwumi, the mother of an APC chieftain, Mr. Dipo Akinwumi, at Iyin Ekiti, following alleged provocation from the governor’s loyalists.

The ensuing violence culminated in some guests sustaining varying degree of injuries while some exotic cars; including those on the convoy of the lawmaker either had their windscreens smashed or damaged.

The two sides, however, pointed accusing fingers at each other. While Bamidele’s loyalists blamed the attack on the Special Assistant to the Governor on Internal Security, Mr. Deji Adesokan and the Chairman of Irepodun Ifelodun Council, Hon. Tajudeen Awe; the governor’s side accused Bamidele and his supporters of aggression.

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