Candidates Sign Peace Accord Ahead of August 15 Osun Governorship Election

Candidates representing 14 political parties participating in the upcoming August 15 Osun State governorship election signed a peace accord Thursday, pledging their commitment to a violent-free electoral process.

The signing ceremony was organized by the National Peace Committee, with remarks delivered by John Cardinal Onaiyekan on behalf of former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd.).

Incumbent Governor Ademola Adeleke, contesting under the Accord platform, signed the document alongside representatives for All Progressives Congress candidate Bola Oyebamiji and African Democratic Congress candidate Dr. Najeem Salaam.

The Independent National Electoral Commission chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, confirmed that the agency has completed 11 of its 13 scheduled election activities, leaving only the conclusion of political campaigns on August 13 and polling day itself. Osun State currently has 2,339,233 certified registered voters across 3,763 polling units, with Permanent Voter Card collection extended through Friday, July 31.

Electoral officials warned that any attempts to disrupt the election or engage in vote buying would be met with strict enforcement of the law, supported by proactive security deployments across all collation centers.

Security agencies assured stakeholders of total neutrality throughout the election period. Representing the Inspector General of Police, Assistant Inspector General Akinyele Fasuba stated that law enforcement officers deployed from around the country would act strictly within their professional mandates.

While Governor Adeleke called on police authorities to ensure fair treatment for all parties and prevent harassment, traditional leaders including the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, urged political actors to reject violence and prioritize the peace of the state over individual ambitions.