NUJ RAISES ALARM OVER ESCALATING POLITICAL VIOLENCE AHEAD OF OSUN GUBER CAMPAIGNS
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By:Tajudeen Aminat
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, has expressed concern over the growing incidence of political violence ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election, warning that the trend threatens peace, public safety and the integrity of the democratic process.
The union noted with concern reports of killings, intimidation and destruction of property linked to political activities, stressing that failure to address the situation could undermine the credibility of the forthcoming election.
In a statement jointly signed by the Osun NUJ Chairman, Adeyemi Aboderin, and Secretary, Olalekan Akindoju, the Council referenced a report by the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), which documented 44 election-related violent incidents across the state between October 2025 and June 2026.
According to the union, the incidents reportedly claimed 13 lives, a development it described as disturbing and one that demands urgent action from all stakeholders.
“The figures should serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders. No political ambition is worth the loss of human lives,” the statement read.
The Council urged security agencies to strengthen measures aimed at preventing further violence by safeguarding lives and property, maintaining professionalism and neutrality, and ensuring that perpetrators of violent acts are prosecuted irrespective of political affiliation.
It also called on political parties, governorship candidates and their supporters to focus on issue-based campaigns and refrain from actions or rhetoric capable of inciting unrest.
“The NUJ cautions political leaders against making inflammatory statements that could incite violence. They have a responsibility to restrain their supporters and place the interests of Osun State above partisan considerations.
“The Council appeals to residents, particularly young people, not to allow themselves to be used as agents of political violence or intimidation during the electioneering period,” the statement added.
The union emphasised that the lives and future of Osun youths should not be sacrificed for political interests, urging them to resist any attempt to recruit them into acts of violence or other unlawful activities.
The NUJ further reaffirmed the commitment of journalists in the state to responsible journalism, factual reporting and public enlightenment throughout the election season.
It also urged media practitioners to uphold professional ethics by avoiding sensational reports capable of heightening political tension, while ensuring balanced, fair and accurate coverage of political developments across the state.
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