By Peace Orjiani
As political campaigns intensify ahead of the August 15, 2026 Osun State Governorship Election, Governor Ademola Adeleke has appealed to residents to embrace peace, reject violence, and allow democracy to prevail at the ballot box. The election is expected to feature major contenders including Adeleke of the Accord Party, APC candidate Bola Oyebamiji, and ADC candidate Najeem Salaam.
In a campaign message shared with supporters, Adeleke urged citizens to remain law-abiding and avoid actions capable of disrupting public peace.
“Let us reject violence, intimidation, provocation, and every act capable of disrupting the peace of our communities. Your vote is your voice, and your choice deserves to be respected. Let us once again show the world that the people of Osun are committed to democracy, unity, and peaceful coexistence. Let the Osun people decide. Free and fair. Vote, not fight.”
The governor’s message comes amid heightened political activities and increasing concerns over election security, allegations of intimidation, vote-buying, and political tension among rival parties ahead of the governorship poll.
A Call for Peace Before the Polls
Adeleke’s appeal centres on peaceful participation in the democratic process. He encouraged eligible voters to exercise their constitutional rights without fear or intimidation, stressing that every vote should count.
According to the governor, elections should unite rather than divide communities, adding that the people of Osun have a long-standing reputation for peaceful coexistence and democratic participation.
The message also reinforces his campaign slogan encouraging voters to support the Accord Party while insisting that the election should remain free, fair and credible.
Security Concerns Dominate Campaign Season
With only days remaining before the election, political observers have noted growing concerns over possible electoral violence, allegations of vote-buying and political intimidation. Several parties have exchanged accusations, while campaign organisations have repeatedly called on security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a transparent electoral process.
Governor Adeleke has previously maintained that the will of the electorate must prevail, expressing confidence that the governorship election cannot be manipulated if democratic institutions perform their constitutional responsibilities.
Appeal to Democratic Institutions
The Accord Party has also urged INEC and security agencies to provide a level playing field for all political parties and guarantee that every lawful vote is counted. Party leaders have publicly endorsed Adeleke’s re-election bid while calling for a peaceful and credible election.
Similarly, various civil society groups, religious leaders and political stakeholders have continued to encourage Osun residents to reject violence and participate peacefully in the democratic process.
Democracy Thrives on Peace
Political analysts believe peaceful elections strengthen democratic institutions and improve public confidence in governance. As campaigning enters its final phase, attention remains focused on voter turnout, election security and adherence to electoral guidelines.
Regardless of political affiliation, observers continue to urge all contestants and supporters to conduct themselves peacefully before, during and after the election.
As Osun prepares for another important democratic exercise, the central message remains clear: every eligible voter has the right to choose their preferred candidate in an atmosphere free from fear, violence and intimidation.
