CSOs Demand Police Reforms Amid Osun Pre-Election Violence

Civil society organizations (CSOs) in Osun State have expressed serious concerns regarding rising pre-election violence as the August 15 governorship election approaches. In a statement signed by Demola Yaya of the Citizenship and Civic Awareness Centre and Emmanuel Olowu of the Democracy Vanguard, the groups highlighted a worrying trend of politically motivated attacks and killings that have heightened anxiety among residents and stakeholders.

They urged immediate measures to strengthen security and restore public confidence in the electoral process. The CSOs noted that the persistent insecurity could discourage voter turnout and erode trust in democratic institutions.

They recommended that relevant authorities enhance the security architecture across the state and ensure law enforcement agencies perform their duties impartially. In response, Osun State Police Commissioner Ibrahim Gotan dismissed allegations of bias, asserting the command's commitment to maintaining law and order and emphasizing the reduction of criminal activities in the state over the past year.