As Osun Votes Today: Will bread, rice, money determine winner?

Voters in Nigeria's Osun State are casting ballots today in a governorship election marked by palpable tension and widespread concerns over violence and financial inducement. Approximately 1.9 million registered voters are eligible to participate in what is largely seen as a two-horse race between the incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke of the Accord Party and Mr. Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The build-up to the election has been marred by intense political rivalries, with accusations and counter-accusations of violence. Many political figures have reportedly abandoned their homes for safer locations due to security fears. A central question looms over the contest: whether voters will prioritize the candidates' manifestos and past performance over the pervasive influence of "stomach infrastructure," a term referring to financial incentives and material handouts.

Across the state's 30 local government areas, contenders have employed various tactics to woo voters. Reports indicate the distribution of branded bread and rice, alongside direct cash transfers ranging from N5,000 to N20,000. Viral videos have surfaced showing political mobilizers distributing "election rice" and warning voters of spiritual repercussions if they vote against the party after accepting the food. The practice of vote-buying, previously known as 'see and buy,' has reportedly evolved with more sophisticated methods.

Beyond vote-buying, the election has been characterized by a spate of violence, particularly in the Ijesaland region, including Ilesa, Ijebu-Ijesa, and Esa-Oke. While clashes are often attributed to cult activities, political parties have accused each other of orchestrating the violence. The APC claims over 30 of its members were killed, while the Accord Party counters that 20 of its members lost their lives in Ijesaland. Violent attacks on party members were also reported in Osogbo.