Dotun Babayemi, a leader in the All Progressives Congress (APC), said voters in Osun State should ensure a peaceful governorship election [1].
The appeal comes as tensions rise ahead of the vote, with party leaders attempting to prevent electoral violence that has historically marred regional contests.
Babayemi serves as the Director-General of the Osun West Governorship Campaign Council of the APC [1]. He said citizens should support the party's governorship candidate, Asiwaju Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji (APC), and stressed that the electoral process must remain free from bloodshed [1].
Six political parties are registered to contest the election [2]. This multi-party competition has led to increased rhetoric and accusations between opposing camps as the date approaches.
Candidate Bola Oyebamiji (APC) said voters should reject any form of intimidation [3]. He cited security assurances from the Inspector General of Police as a reason for voters to feel confident in their ability to cast ballots safely [3].
Despite these calls for peace, the political atmosphere remains strained. The Adeleke campaign has accused the APC of promoting violence and terrorizing residents in the lead-up to the vote [4]. The APC has denied these claims, maintaining that its focus is on a credible, and peaceful transition of power [1].
The governorship election is scheduled for Aug. 15, 2026 [1]. Local officials and security agencies are monitoring the region to prevent clashes between supporters of the competing candidates.
“Dotun Babayemi called on voters in Osun State to ensure a peaceful governorship election.”
The conflicting narratives between the APC and the Adeleke campaign highlight the volatile nature of Osun State politics. While the APC is publicly prioritizing security and peace to ensure a credible vote, the accusations of terrorization suggest a high risk of instability. The outcome will depend largely on whether the security assurances provided by the Inspector General of Police translate into actual safety at the polling units on Aug. 15.
