Omoluabi Progressives raises alarm over alleged threats to Aregbesola’s life
Aregbesola
The Omoluabi Progressives has expressed concern over what it described as a coordinated attempt to eliminate former Minister of Interior and ex-Governor of Osun State, Rauf Aregbesola.
In a statement signed by its spokesperson and organising secretary, Oluwaseun Abosede on Sunday, the group alleged that recent developments point to a mix of political intimidation and physical obstruction aimed at silencing Aregbesola.
According to the statement, a pattern of “inflammatory remarks, veiled threats and state-backed actions” has raised fears of a wider agenda against the former minister.
Citing specific incidents, the group recalled that Yoruba Nation agitator, Sunday Igboho, during a rally on July 23, 2025, made a declaration interpreted as a threat to Aregbesola, saying in Yoruba: “Ilẹ o mú wọn” — meaning “the land will consume them.”
On August 2, journalist Mayor Akinpelu reportedly wrote on social media that “no man could repay good with evil and get away with it,” a post later amplified by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga. Similarly, on August 14, journalist Gbonka Ebiri allegedly described Aregbesola as a “sell-out” who must face the “wrath of Yorubaland.”
The group further alleged that the same day, police operatives using an Armoured Personnel Carrier disrupted an African Democratic Congress (ADC) rally in Sagamu, Ogun State. Aregbesola was billed to speak at the event in support of Hon. Solomon Oluwaseyi Osho, the party’s House of Representatives candidate, but the venue was reportedly vandalised, equipment seized, and the former minister prevented from attending.
Omoluabi Progressives argued that police denials over the incident have only fueled suspicion of political interference.
“This pattern of rhetoric and physical obstruction amounts to the anatomy of assassination politics,” the group said, warning that urgent steps must be taken to safeguard Aregbesola.
The organisation aligned with the Coalition of Oodua Self-Determination Groups, which also condemned the threats. Its chairman, Dayo Ogunlana, cautioned that “Yoruba politics must not descend into intimidation and violence.”
Highlighting Aregbesola’s contributions, including his reconciliation efforts within the Oodua People’s Congress (OPC) and developmental projects in Osun and Lagos States, the group stressed that he had committed no offence other than choosing an independent political path.
“The safety, dignity, and political rights of Yoruba leaders must not be sacrificed on the altar of opportunism,” the statement added.
Omoluabi Progressives urged security agencies to take the threats seriously, warning that any harm to Aregbesola could destabilise peace in Yorubaland.
