Political violence and fear rise ahead of Osun governorship election
With political violence escalating across Osun State, concerns are mounting over the ability of security agencies to ensure a peaceful governorship poll. Supporters of the major parties, including the APC and the Accord Party, have been caught in violent clashes, leaving several people dead or injured. Both parties blame each other for the unrest, while residents are increasingly afraid to display their political affiliations. The situation has created a tense atmosphere as the election approaches.
Key takeaways
- Political violence in Osun State has intensified since February 2025, following a Court of Appeal judgment involving local government chairmen from the APC.
- Violent confrontations between APC and PDP supporters erupted on February 17, resulting in multiple deaths, including the APC chairman of Irewole Local Government, Remi Abbas.
- On June 3, 2026, Hon Asimiyu Ajibola, Accord chairman in Osogbo Local Government, was shot and hospitalized after an attack allegedly by APC assailants.
- Clashes between supporters of the Accord Party and the APC in Ile-Ife on June 8 led to further violence and injuries in several communities.
- The Osun State Commissioner of Police, Gotan, attributes many killings to cult-related activities and has pledged increased surveillance and arrests to restore peace before the upcoming election.
