The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) in Oyo State has rejected allegations by the campaign organisation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship candidate, Senator Sharafadeen Alli, that some APM and Park Management System (PMS) elements were planning to vandalise his campaign billboards and posters across Ibadan.
The APM Presidential/Governorship Apex Campaign Council described the allegation as false, saying it was intended to create tension and divert attention from issues concerning the state.
The council, in a statement issued by its Media and Publicity Committee, was reacting to an earlier statement by the Sharafadeen Alli Campaign Organisation, which alleged that some APM members were working with PMS figures to destroy Alli’s campaign materials in parts of Ibadan.
The Alli campaign organisation had claimed that the alleged plan was discussed at a meeting in the Gbagi area of Ibadan and that areas including Egbeda, Ibadan North-East, Lagelu and Akinyele were potential targets.
But dismissing the allegation, the APM council said, ‘We state without hesitation that this claim is a deliberate falsehood, crafted to provoke fear, smear our campaign, and distract the public from the real issues facing Oyo State.’
‘APM rejects this allegation completely and unequivocally,’ it added.
The council maintained that the party’s campaign was based on peaceful mobilisation and adherence to democratic principles, stressing that it neither encouraged nor sponsored violence.
‘APM has built its reputation on peaceful mobilisation, disciplined engagement, and respect for democratic norms. We do not destroy opponents’ materials, we do not sponsor thuggery, and we do not engage in violence,’ the statement said.
The party also rejected any attempt to associate it with political violence in the state, while making reference to allegations historically levelled against the APC.
‘For clarity, APM is not the political organisation known for thuggery or violent political behaviour in Oyo State,’ the council said.
It added, ‘The people of this state are fully aware of the long-standing reputation of the APC regarding political violence, intimidation, and disruptive tactics during election seasons. That history does not belong to APM, and we refuse to allow anyone to drag us into that narrative.’
The APM council urged the Alli campaign organisation to refrain from what it described as inflammatory statements capable of heightening political tension ahead of the 2027 election.
‘We, therefore, urge the Sharafadeen Alli Campaign Organisation to desist from spreading inflammatory claims that could mislead the public or provoke unnecessary tension,’ it said.
‘Oyo State deserves a mature, respectful political atmosphere, not reckless allegations.’
The council further said its campaign would remain focused on peaceful political participation, respect for candidates and their supporters, compliance with electoral laws and the promotion of stability in the state.
‘APM stands unshaken. We remain committed to delivering a campaign rooted in integrity, stability, and genuine service to the people of Oyo State,’ it stated.
It added that ‘no amount of manufactured tension, reckless propaganda, or desperate political theatre’ would derail its commitment to peaceful democratic engagement.
The council also declared that the party would continue its campaign ‘with discipline and honour,’ insisting that it would not be drawn into what it described as ‘gutter politics.’
The statement concluded: ‘APM is moving forward confidently, peacefully, and with the full conviction that the majority of the people of Oyo State are solidly behind our party and our candidates.’