Osun 2026: CSOs warn of rising pre-election violence, demand police reforms before Aug 15 poll

The Network of Civil Society Groups in Osun State has called for urgent security reforms, citing a worrying rise in politically motivated attacks and killings as the state prepares for the August 15 governorship election.

The groups called for immediate measures to strengthen security and restore public confidence in the electoral process.

In a statement jointly signed by Demola Yaya of the Citizenship and Citizen Awareness Centre and Emmanuel Olowu of Democracy Vanguard, and made available to journalists in Osogbo at the weekend, the coalition said recent incidents of violence, intimidation, and politically motivated attacks have heightened anxiety among residents and stakeholders.

According to the group, instead of a decline in political tension as the election approaches, the state has continued to witness disturbing cases of violence, killings, and attacks targeting political actors and innocent citizens.

The CSOs warned that persistent insecurity could discourage voter turnout and erode public trust in democratic institutions.

“Recent developments have raised serious concerns about the state’s preparedness for a peaceful and credible election. The continued incidents of political violence pose a threat to public confidence in the electoral process,” the statement noted.

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As part of its recommendations, the coalition urged relevant authorities to strengthen the security architecture across the state and ensure that law enforcement agencies discharge their duties with professionalism and impartiality.

The group also advocated a restructuring of the Osun State Police Command, arguing that such a move would help promote peace, justice, and public safety ahead of the crucial governorship election.

According to the organisations, concerns persist among sections of the public regarding the handling of politically related security issues. They said the situation has contributed to declining confidence in the command’s neutrality.

However, the Commissioner of Police in Osun State, Ibrahim Gotan, dismissed allegations of bias. He insisted that the command has remained professional and committed to maintaining law and order across the state.

Responding to calls for his redeployment, Gotan described the allegations as unfounded. He pointed to the command’s achievements in combating criminal activities.

“During my one year in office, the command under my watch has significantly reduced cases of banditry, terrorism, cultism, and other criminal activities. Our record speaks for itself,” he said.

The police commissioner stressed that while individuals and groups are entitled to demand his redeployment, such calls would not distract the command from its responsibility of safeguarding lives and property.

He reaffirmed the commitment of the police to providing adequate security before, during, and after the August 15 governorship election. He assured residents that the command would continue to work towards ensuring a peaceful electoral process in the state.