Security agencies have intensified operations across Osun State ahead of Saturday’s governorship election, deploying soldiers, police officers and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps personnel to prevent further violence and reassure voters. The heightened security follows a tense campaign period marked by several violent incidents and reports of more than 30 deaths by groups monitoring the attacks.
The latest violence occurred in Ilesa on Tuesday, where three people were reportedly killed, with allegations that 12 people died within 24 hours. The situation also sparked controversy over comments by Senator Francis Fadahunsi, who was accused of making an inciting statement. He later appeared before the police and said his words had been taken out of context, insisting he meant APC supporters should “kill” Accord with their votes.
The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, warned thugs and other troublemakers to stay away from the election. He said the police would maintain professionalism, neutrality and respect for human rights while protecting the electoral process. Deputy Inspector-General Ishyaku Mohammed has been deployed to oversee election security, while additional police and NSCDC personnel have been brought in from neighbouring states.
Political parties are also intensifying their final mobilisation efforts. APC leaders, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and several governors, arrived in Osogbo for the party’s final rally in support of its candidate, Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji. Accord, ADC and AAC are also making last-minute efforts to secure votes, with AAC presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore urging voters to support Olajide Esan and protect their votes.
The ADC, meanwhile, alleged that there were plans to arrest its National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, ahead of the election. The party warned that such an action could heighten tensions and be interpreted as an attempt to disrupt its electoral activities. It urged security agencies to follow due process if they had lawful grounds to invite or arrest the former Osun governor.
The Independent National Electoral Commission has also added Social Democratic Party candidate Francis Olugbenga Ajala and his running mate, Faseke Babajimi Oladipo, to the ballot following a Federal High Court judgment. INEC said ballot papers and result sheets were being reproduced to reflect the addition, bringing the number of parties contesting Saturday’s election to 15. The commission assured stakeholders that it remained committed to conducting a free, fair and credible poll.
The Nigerian Bar Association urged electoral officials, security agencies, political actors and public office holders to remain neutral and uphold the rule of law. INEC said it was fully prepared, with election personnel trained to minimise errors, while the Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner assured voters that every valid vote would count. Governor Ademola Adeleke has also declared Friday a public holiday to enable workers to travel and prepare for the election.
