Yiaga Africa has raised alarm over escalating pre-election violence in Osun State, warning that the deteriorating security situation threatens the credibility of the upcoming governorship election. The civil society organization’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, issued the warning during an interview on Arise Television on Friday, describing the surge in attacks as a serious cause for concern.
Itodo disclosed that a coalition of civil society organizations involved in election observation recently met with the Inspector-General of Police to brief him on the tense atmosphere. He characterized the contest not merely as tense but as highly competitive, noting that the current climate of fear could undermine the democratic process.
“The level of pre-election violence leading up to the election is a huge cause for concern, particularly the reports of political abductions and loss of lives,” Itodo said. He emphasized that the delegation’s visit to the police hierarchy was intended to draw immediate attention to the state of security and the urgent need to guarantee a safe and credible exercise.
The Yiaga Africa director alleged that certain political actors believe they have access to federal power and are attempting to instrumentalize security agencies to tilt the outcome in their favor. He called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene decisively by issuing a strong, unambiguous directive to security agencies to remain neutral and allow the electoral process to proceed without interference.
“The president also needs to call people around him and warn that anyone who thinks because of access to federal might wants to abuse such, will face the full wrath of the law,” Itodo stated. He argued that such a public show of executive will is necessary to restore public confidence, adding that the electorate in Osun is prepared to vote but remains anxious over the prevailing insecurity.
The organization’s appeal underscores the broader challenge of insulating electoral institutions from partisan influence in off-cycle governorship contests. With the election date approaching, the effectiveness of the security response and the political leadership’s commitment to neutrality will likely determine whether the process meets the standard of a free and fair vote.
