In a bizarre episode of “wahala no dey finish for Nigeria,” the Ondo State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken a stern stance against one of its ward chairmen, Mr. Olumide Awolumate, from Akoko North-West Local Government Area. Awolumate is facing disciplinary action for allegedly assaulting the state Commissioner for Woman Affairs and Social Development, Mrs. Juliana Osadahun, in a shocking video that emerged during a palliatives distribution event in Arigidi Akoko. Mrs. Osadahun allegedly suffered injuries to her head during the confrontation.
Addressing the incident, the state chairman of the APC, Mr. Ade Adetimehin, expressed strong disapproval and promised swift action. He emphasized that the party does not tolerate indiscipline, especially in such a public and embarrassing manner.
Adetimehin stated, “We don’t tolerate indiscipline in our party. The erring chairman would be suspended for being involved in such a public, embarrassing act. I have directed the party chairman in the local government to bring everybody to Akure today (Monday), and we will deliberate, and appropriate sanction will be meted out where necessary. But, the ward chairman would be suspended.”
In a similar vein, Princess Oluwatosin Ajirotutu, the Deputy Majority Leader of the Ondo State House of Assembly, condemned the alleged assault on Commissioner Osadahun. She called upon the state police command to promptly arrest and prosecute the APC chieftain responsible.
Ajirotutu expressed her dismay, saying, “It is displeasing and barbaric to have viewed a video clip that surfaced and has caused pandemonium in the media space and Arigidi in Akoko Northwest of Ondo State following the directive of Ondo State Government on subsidy palliatives distribution across the state. The action of Mr. Awolumate Olumide on Hon. Adebunmi Osadahun is condemned, and he should be arrested and made to face maximum disciplinary sanction by the Ondo State Commissioner of Police, while the Attorney General of Ondo State should prosecute Mr. Olumide immediately. Assault on womenfolk should not be tolerated in any part of Ondo State and the country. Women deserve our caring in every situation because of their sensitive roles in society.”
This incident sheds light on the persistent issue of misogyny in Nigeria, where some men continue to view women as inferior. Despite strides made in breaking down gender barriers, incidents like this highlight the need for swift and decisive action. Many are calling for Mr. Olumide Awolumate’s immediate suspension, as his behavior is not only repulsive but also deeply irritating and infuriating. A public apology may also be necessary to address this deplorable incident.
