NBA President Warns Against Violence Ahead of Osun Election

Afam Osigwe (SAN), President of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), expressed grave concerns regarding the rising political violence in Osun State as the governorship election approaches. Speaking in Osogbo on Wednesday, Osigwe reported that there have been 73 documented incidents of election-related violence, with a death toll of 29 between May and July.

He emphasized the need for security personnel deployed for the election to maintain professionalism and neutrality, urging them not to favor any political party. Osigwe identified Osogbo and Ilesa as significant flashpoints for violence, accounting for over 50% of reported incidents.

He noted that while some violence was attributed to cult activities, many incidents were linked to clashes between political factions. Osigwe called for an end to orchestrated violence that seeks to intimidate voters and disrupt the electoral process, stressing the importance of a secure environment for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) officials and voters.