Adeleke blames APC for election violence as Osun poll approaches

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has attributed mounting election-related violence to opponents lacking substantive campaign platforms, alleging that the All Progressives Congress (APC) and law enforcement have coordinated attacks on his party members. Adeleke made the claims during separate media engagements ahead of Saturday's gubernatorial poll, in which he is seeking a second term.

The governor pointed to his administration's resolution of workers' pension and salary arrears as evidence of competent governance. According to Adeleke, his government has settled more than two-thirds of outstanding half-salary obligations and cleared over N80 billion in inherited pension debt—a responsibility his predecessor, Gboyega Oyetola, had declared impossible to address.

Adeleke also referenced civil service reforms and welfare initiatives as reasons for public sector workers' endorsement of his candidacy. Adeleke characterized the alleged violence as a sign of desperation by his political opponents, suggesting they resort to aggression because their campaigns lack substantive policy messaging.

He did not provide specific instances of violence in the available statements but maintained that police bias has favoured the APC in its operations against his party. The governor's assertions come as Nigeria's electoral environment has faced recurring complaints about pre-election violence and security force partiality across multiple states.

Adeleke's dual emphasis on economic management and security concerns reflects broader tensions shaping the Osun race. The election is scheduled for Saturday, with results expected to show whether voters credit the governor's welfare claims or prioritise other factors in their decision.