A Labour Party (LP) chieftain and businessman based in Lagos, Mr. Akinbola Tunde, has claimed that he is being targeted with political persecution, intimidation, and threats to his life.
Akinbola, who was instrumental in mobilizing grassroots support for the LP during the 2023 general elections, alleged that since the polls, he has been subjected to continuous harassment, including violent attacks and a break-in at his residence.
Recalling an incident on March 4, 2023, he said he was in Ondo State for a wedding when he received a distress call from his housemaid, Miss Adeoti Rachael.
“She informed me that armed political thugs had forcefully entered my house, calling out my name as they searched for me. Unable to find me, they vandalized my belongings and assaulted her so badly that she required hospitalization at Pillars Medical Centre,” he recounted.
He also alleged that on December 12, 2022, he was attacked on his way home from a Labour Party campaign event in Alimosho, Lagos.
“I was ambushed by armed political thugs who physically assaulted me. While trying to escape, I sustained a severe knee injury that took six weeks to heal,” he stated.
Despite filing reports with law enforcement, Akinbola expressed disappointment over the lack of action.
“The perpetrators continue to act freely, and the police have failed to take any steps. My family and I remain in constant fear for our safety,” he said.
With the 2025 local government elections approaching, he noted that the threats against him have intensified, raising concerns about his political future.
He urged the Federal Government, security agencies, human rights organizations, and the international community to step in and ensure his safety.
“I will not allow intimidation to silence me. My goal is to contribute to the progress of my country in a society where democracy, justice, and freedom of expression thrive,” he said.
Akinbola called on security agencies to act swiftly to protect him and ensure those responsible for the attacks are brought to justice.