Osun election ends amid violence, calls for investigation and accountability

The recently concluded Osun State governorship election has brought an end to weeks of intense political activity, but it has also left behind a disturbing legacy of violence, injuries, and intimidation. Reports indicate that at least 34 election-related violent incidents and 18 deaths occurred in Osun between May 2026, though some sources suggest the figures are higher.

The article strongly condemns the violence, stating that no election or political ambition justifies the loss of life. It emphasizes that the people of Osun were entitled to choose their governor without fear of attack or death due to their political preferences. The piece calls for the state and the nation not to move on simply because voting has ended, but to properly investigate the circumstances surrounding the violence and hold those responsible accountable.

Serious questions remain unanswered: Who orchestrated the killings and violence? How many suspects have been arrested and prosecuted? Were perpetrators acting independently, or were they sponsored by political interests? The article argues these are not mere partisan accusations, as numerous politically motivated killings and clashes were documented before the election, necessitating a comprehensive investigation.

Beyond the violence, the use of threatening and inflammatory language by some politicians and public office holders during the election period is also a significant concern. Statements attributed to Senator Francis Fadahunsi, for instance, generated widespread worry and calls for investigation, with the National Human Rights Commission describing them as potentially inciting electoral violence and voter intimidation. The piece concludes by advocating for an independent judicial inquiry into the election violence, stressing that political violence must have consequences to prevent its recurrence.