Osun Candidates Sign Peace Accord Ahead of Election

On August 15, candidates from 14 political parties participating in the Osun governorship election signed a peace accord to affirm their commitment to a peaceful electoral process. Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, who is seeking reelection on the Accord platform, signed the document alongside representatives from the All Progressives Congress, Bola Oyebamiji, and Dr Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress.

John Cardinal Onaiyekan, representing the National Peace Committee, emphasized the importance of the accord in promoting dialogue and trust among political actors. He urged adherence to the agreement, highlighting that the peaceful outcome of the election also relies on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan stated that the signing sends a strong message about the necessity of peace for democracy. He warned that any attempts to disrupt the election or engage in vote buying would be met with legal consequences, affirming that INEC has completed 11 of the 13 activities on its election timetable.