CISLAC Raises Alarm Over Violence Ahead of Osun Election

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has raised alarms about the increasing threats of electoral violence, political intimidation, and vote buying as the August 15 governorship election in Osun State approaches. Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC and Transparency International Nigeria, issued a statement highlighting findings from independent monitoring and media reports that reveal a troubling pattern of violence and voter inducement.

Recent incidents include the killing of a 14-year-old boy, Ezekiel Olapade, in Ilobu due to a stray bullet during a clash, and other violent acts such as the killings of Kolade Eluyera and a political youth leader in Esa-Oke. CISLAC emphasized the need for peace and citizen protection, warning that the recruitment of political thugs and vote buying undermines the electoral process.

The organization also noted recent arrests related to electoral offenses, underscoring the necessity for vigilance from law enforcement and electoral authorities to ensure a fair election.