Dr. Oye Owolewa, Washington D.C. news shadow representative and current candidate for D.C. Council at-large, reported that his home was vandalized over the weekend in what he condemned as an act of political violence. The incident occurred while he was attending an Anacostia Coordinating Council event, marking the first time in his seven years of residence that his property has been targeted.
Details of the Vandalism Attack
The vandalism was discovered on Saturday when Owolewa returned home from a community event. Blue spray paint was used to deface his property, with profanity (“F U”) spray-painted on his porch and additional graffiti on his door and walls. The attack appeared deliberately targeted, as Owolewa noted that his townhome looks identical to others in his neighborhood, yet his was the only residence vandalized.
Owolewa immediately contacted the 7th District D.C. police to file a report. Unfortunately, security cameras outside his home had been non-functional for several months, preventing the capture of surveillance footage that might have identified the perpetrators. The Metropolitan Police Department is actively investigating the incident, though no arrests have been made as of the latest reports.
Political Context and Owolewa’s Response
The vandalism comes during a politically active period for Owolewa, who announced his candidacy for D.C. Council at-large in September 2025, challenging incumbent Democrat Anita Bonds. As someone who has served as D.C.’s shadow representative since 2019, Owolewa has been a vocal advocate for D.C. statehood and has made honest critiques of elected officials.
In his public response, Owolewa emphasized his determination not to be intimidated by the attack. “As a community public servant, I’ve always fought for the betterment of local quality of life. As a DC Council candidate, I’m focused on fighting to rebuild DC’s working and middle class. And I won’t be intimidated,” he stated. He characterized the vandalism as part of a broader pattern of political violence becoming increasingly common and called on the community to stand against such tactics (WJLA coverage, WTOP report).
In his public response, Owolewa emphasized his determination not to be intimidated by the attack. “As a community public servant, I’ve always fought for the betterment of local quality of life. As a DC Council candidate, I’m focused on fighting to rebuild DC’s working and middle class. And I won’t be intimidated,” he stated.
Whether it’s people who support us or people who don’t, nobody should be going to our front doors, vandalizing our property, vandalizing our home. This is where our kids live. This is where our friends stay. This is obviously our own safe haven. We must protect that said Oyolewa
Enhanced Security Measures
Following the incident, Owolewa announced plans to enhance security protocols to ensure the safety of himself, his team, and his home. He stressed that the attack would not deter his activities or campaign efforts, stating that he and his team are “moving full steam ahead” with their work.
The representative emphasized that attacks at elected officials’ homes cross a significant line, as these residences serve as sanctuaries for politicians, their families, and friends. He noted that such incidents threaten not only the targeted individual but also the democratic process itself.
The timing of the vandalism, occurring approximately one year after Owolewa’s near-fatal car accident in 2024, adds another layer of concern. The investigation remains ongoing, with D.C. police working to identify those responsible. Owolewa has indicated that his team is cooperating with law enforcement to ensure accountability for the attack.
