Labour Party Supporter, Osasu John, Assassinated In Abuja Amid Growing Political Tensions

In what is being described as a politically motivated killing, Mr. Osasu John, a grassroot political organiser and ardent supporter of the Labour Party, was shot dead by unknown gunmen in the outskirts of Abuja on November 29, 2023.

The brazen attack has sparked widespread outrage and renewed fears about the escalating dangers facing political activists in Nigeria.

Mr Osasu had been actively involved in the 2023 local government election campaigns in Edo State, particularly supporting the Labour Party’s candidate for the chairmanship of Oredo Local Government.

His efforts reportedly drew the ire of powerful political interest, including individuals believed to be affiliated with rival parties.

According to a senior member of the Labor Party in Edo State who spoke on conditions of anonymity, both Osasu and his close associate, Pastor Eseosa Abbe had received threats in the lead up to and the following highly contested in September 2 elections.

They were warned several times to step away from the campaign, “the source said.”

The threats were real, and unfortunately, we are now seeing the consequences.

Further investigation by this paper revealed that Pastor Eseosa Abbe, a fellow campaigner and friend to the deceased went into hiding shortly after Osasu’s death.

A community source confirmed that Abbe, who had also been targeted in previous attacks, has not been seen publicly since late November.

Efforts to reach him for comments have been unsuccessful as of press time.

The Federal Capital Territory Police Command confirmed the killing in a brief statement, noting that an investigation was ongoing.

“We are actively working to uncover the identity of those responsible, ” said police spokesperson, SP Josephine Adeh.

“We urge members of the public with credible information to come forward.”

However, the civil society organizations remain skeptical of the police’s ability to bring the perpetrators to justice, citing a long standing pattern of impunity with cases involving politically connected individuals.

Human rights watchdogs have already begun calling for an independent investigation, demanding greater accountability and protection for political activists ahead of future elections.

The killing of Mr Osasu has cast a long shadow over the Labour Party’s efforts in Edo state where the September local government elections were marred by allegations of voters intimidation, rigging and violence.

The PDP, the ruling party in the state secured sweeping victories in all 18 local government areas, a result that has been widely disputed by opposition members and observers alike.

As questions continue to mount over the motive and identities behind the assassination, the Labour Party has called for immediate justice, describing the murder as an attack on democracy and the will of the people.

This is a developing story, updates will be provided as more information becomes available.