The Ondo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken action against a ward chairman, Mr. Olumide Awolumate, by suspending him. Awolumate was accused of physically assaulting the state Commissioner for Woman Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Juliana Osadahun.
The altercation, which was captured on video, showed the ward chairman engaging in a physical altercation with the commissioner, allegedly causing injuries to her head during an event related to the distribution of oil subsidy removal palliatives in Arigidi Akoko.
The state chairman of the APC, Mr. Ade Adetimehin, expressed his disapproval of the incident and stated that the party had convened to address the matter. Following their discussions, it was decided that Awolumate should be suspended from the party.
Adetimehin emphasized the party’s stance against indiscipline and violence, especially against women, and emphasized that the party must respect the dignity of women.
In addition to the party’s action, the state Commissioner of Police, Mr. Asabi Abiodun, condemned the attack and called for an investigation into the incident. Preliminary findings indicated that the commissioner was attacked by Awolumate during a meeting with party members in the Akoko area.
The Deputy Majority Leader of the Ondo State House of Assembly, Oluwatosin Ajirotutu, also condemned the alleged assault and called for the arrest and prosecution of the APC chieftain involved.
This incident highlights the importance of upholding the rule of law and condemning acts of violence, especially those directed at public officials and women, in the political sphere.