IPCR Urges Peaceful Elections Ahead of Osun Governorship Poll

The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) issued a warning to political actors in Osun State on Friday, urging them to refrain from violence, intimidation, and inflammatory rhetoric as the governorship election approaches on Saturday. Dr. Joseph Ochogwu, the Director-General of IPCR, emphasized that the election should be decided by the ballot rather than coercion.

The warning comes amid heightened concerns over potential election-related violence, with several local government areas identified as vulnerable. The IPCR called on candidates, political parties, supporters, security agencies, and voters to prioritize the interests of Osun above partisan politics.

It stressed that political competition should not lead to violence or threats and urged candidates to accept election results peacefully or seek legal redress. Voters were advised to resist recruitment as agents of violence and to maintain order at polling units.

The IPCR also warned against spreading misinformation, particularly on social media, as tensions rise in Osun, with reports of politically linked disturbances.