Osun poll: Ex-CJN Ariwoola-led council warns against violence, demands credible election

A council of elders, led by former Chief Justice of Nigeria Olukayode Ariwoola, has issued a stern warning against electoral violence ahead of the Osun State governorship election scheduled for Saturday.

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The Council of the Wise of the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development has continued to observe with huge concern the unfolding events in connection with the off-season Osun State Governorship Election which comes up on Saturday, August 15, 2026.

The Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development's Council of the Wise urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies to guarantee a free, fair, and transparent election process. The council expressed significant concern over "disturbing and clearly undemocratic developments" reported in the state leading up to the vote.

Despite assurances from candidates and electoral bodies, tension has remained high in Osun State, with reports of violence resulting in fatalities and injuries. Security agencies have arrested several individuals suspected of involvement in pre-election violence. The council called for a thorough investigation into the reported deaths.

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We also welcome the commitment which they have all made, repeatedly, to play by the rules of the game.

"The Council of the Wise of the Savannah Centre for Diplomacy, Democracy and Development has continued to observe with huge concern the unfolding events in connection with the off-season Osun State Governorship Election which comes up on Saturday, August 15, 2026," stated the council's chairman, represented by Godknows Igali. The council commended the incumbent governor and other candidates for participating in the election and for their commitment to playing by the rules.

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However, the council observes with very grave concerns the very negative and clearly undemocratic developments which continue to be reported ahead of the election. In particular and most disturbing are the very unfortunate incidents, including especially, loss of human lives.

However, the council noted "very grave concerns the very negative and clearly undemocratic developments which continue to be reported ahead of the election. In particular and most disturbing are the very unfortunate incidents, including especially, loss of human lives. This is needless, unpatriotic, and unacceptable in a democratic setting where the ultimate goal of participating in the electoral process is to serve the people to bring better dividends of democracy."

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This is needless, unpatriotic, and unacceptable in a democratic setting where the ultimate goal of participating in the electoral process is to serve the people to bring better dividends of democracy.