Reports indicate that tensions have escalated across several communities, with recurring clashes involving supporters of rival political parties leading to injuries and deaths. Residents and political observers have expressed concerns that the increasing violence could discourage voter participation and undermine confidence in the electoral process.
The current wave of unrest is linked to a series of political disputes that intensified following local government crises and subsequent confrontations among party supporters. In recent weeks, incidents of shootings and attacks in areas including Osogbo, Ede and Ile-Ife have deepened anxiety among residents ahead of the election.
Political parties have traded accusations over responsibility for the violence. The Accord Party has alleged attacks on its members and campaign structures, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected the claims and accused its opponents of politicising security concerns.
Osun State Commissioner of Police, Mohammed Umar Abba, has attributed many of the killings to cult-related activities and assured residents that security agencies are intensifying efforts to arrest perpetrators and maintain peace. The police have pledged to increase surveillance and ensure a secure environment before, during and after the election.
Civil society organisations and election observers have also called on political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns and urged security agencies to remain neutral and professional in handling the electoral process. They warned that failure to curb violence could embolden political thugs and threaten the credibility of the governorship poll.
As campaigning intensifies, many residents hope the focus will shift from intimidation and violence to debates on governance and development, allowing voters to freely exercise their democratic rights without fear.
