Nigeria election violence: APC member shot, two rescued from kidnappers

Political violence has escalated in Nigeria's Osun state as the August 15 governorship election approaches. A member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Taofeek Mustapha, was shot in the leg by suspected political thugs in Osogbo.

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We all scampered for safety to avoid stray bullets, then we suddenly heard someone crying for help. But we didn’t look back at the moment.

The incident occurred when assailants, reportedly using the insignia of the Accord Party, arrived in an unmarked vehicle and began shooting. The victim stated he was targeted because he was wearing an APC candidate's cap. He managed to escape after being shot.

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I was putting on the AMBO-crested cap when the shooting occured. Everyone ran for safety, and they pursued me because I was wearing the APC candidate cap. When I was shot, I cried for help. Then the attackers retreated back into their vehicle and drove away.

In a separate event, two residents of Ilesa were kidnapped by individuals suspected to be loyal to the APC. Police have since rescued the victims. These acts of political thuggery have increased tension in the state.

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The thugs used the insignia of Accord Party; three of them came out of the vehicle with guns and started shooting. Then they saw me, and went after me.

In response, the Inspector General of Police has directed the Commissioner of Police to conduct security operations, including raids on criminal hideouts, to ensure safety before the election. He warned politicians against harboring criminals and stressed that lawlessness would not be tolerated.

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criminals would not be allowed to set the state on fire