Political tension is gradually building across Osun State as preparations for the 2026 governorship election gather momentum, with supporters of the All Progressives Congress and the ruling People’s Democratic Party engaging in heated political confrontations in parts of the state.
The latest development followed the reported destruction of campaign billboards belonging to the governorship candidate of the APC, Alhaji Munirudeen Oyebamiji, an incident that has further heightened political anxiety among party loyalists and residents.
Supporters of the APC condemned the act, describing it as politically motivated and capable of threatening the peaceful atmosphere of the state ahead of the election. They called on security agencies to investigate the incident and bring those responsible to justice.
On the other hand, members of the ruling party denied involvement in the destruction, insisting that political campaigns should be conducted peacefully and democratically without violence or intimidation.
Observers have expressed concern over the growing hostility between political supporters, warning that unchecked tensions could undermine the credibility and peaceful conduct of the forthcoming governorship poll.
Residents and stakeholders have therefore appealed to political actors, party supporters, and youth groups to embrace peace, tolerance, and issue-based campaigns as the state moves closer to the highly anticipated 2026 election.
Security agencies are also being urged to remain proactive in maintaining law and order to prevent any breakdown of peace before, during, and after the election period.
Adeboje Lukman