Gabriel Idowu

The Factional National Chairman of Accord party, Prof. Chris Imumolen on Monday expressed concern over his personal safety and that of his family, urging security and law enforcement agencies to intervene.

Imumolen in a statement in Abuja appealed to Gov. Ademola Adeleke to use his influence to ensure that his associates, supporters and political followers refrain from any act of intimidation, harassment, threat or violence against me or anyone associated with me.

Imumolen, who was the party 2023 Presidential Candidate, said that his attention had been drawn to developments and circumstances that have caused me serious concern about my personal safety and that of members of my family.

“I make this appeal in the spirit of peace and responsibility. I seek no confrontation with Governor Adeleke or anyone else.

“I am not an indigene of Osun State. My interest in Osun is principally connected with my commitment to the development of the Accord Party, the protection of its political interests and the advancement of democratic values.

Imumolen said that his political views and interventions should not be interpreted as a personal declaration of war against anyone.

He said that he has a legitimate right, like every other Nigerian, to express my political opinions and participate in democratic activities without fear, intimidation or harassment.

“I also wish to make it absolutely clear that I have not authorised anyone to engage in violence, threats or confrontation on my behalf. I believe political disagreements should be resolved through dialogue, democratic processes and the rule of law.

“However, given the concerns that have arisen, I am putting this statement on public record as a precautionary measure.

“If any harm comes to me, any member of my family, or anyone directly associated with me, I respectfully call on the relevant security and law-enforcement authorities to conduct an immediate, transparent and independent investigation into the circumstances and establish the facts and identify whoever may be responsible,’’ he said.

Imumolen added that he did not accuse any individual of responsibility for any future incident.

“Rather, I am making this appeal because I believe that no political disagreement should ever become a justification for intimidation, violence or the endangerment of human life.

“I call on Governor Adeleke, his supporters and all political actors in Osun State to choose peace, restraint and democratic engagement.

“I seek no war. I seek only justice, fairness, peace and the freedom to pursue the development of Accord without intimidation or fear,’’ Imumolen said.