Chinwe Odita
Suspected political thugs on Saturday allegedly attacked the polling unit of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, governorship candidate in Osun State, Rt. Hon. Najeem Salaam, at Ward 4, Unit 13.
The incident threw voters and INEC officials into panic, with many scampering to safety as voting commenced in parts of the state.
Speaking to _Channels Television_ after the incident, Salaam said he was the target of the attack but escaped unhurt after moving away strategically following the casting of his vote.
“They came to the polling unit where I voted. I believe I was the target, but I moved away strategically after casting my vote and that saved me,” Salaam said.
Eyewitnesses at the scene said electoral materials were destroyed during the disruption, forcing officials and voters to flee the unit.
The attack is one of the few reported cases of violence recorded so far in the August 15 governorship election across Osun State.
Security operatives were later seen deployed to the area to restore calm and prevent further breakdown of law and order.
The ADC candidate condemned the attack and called on security agencies to ensure the safety of voters and officials for the remainder of the election.
INEC and the police are yet to issue an official statement on the incident as of press time.
