NBA's Osigwe Urges Peace Ahead of Osun Governorship Poll

Afam Osigwe, the outgoing President of the Nigerian Bar Association, expressed grave concerns regarding the increasing political violence in Osun State as the governorship election approaches. Speaking to journalists in Osogbo on Wednesday, Osigwe highlighted that there have been 73 reported incidents of election-related violence, with a death toll of approximately 29 between May and July.

He noted that the violence appears to be orchestrated rather than spontaneous, with Osogbo and Ilesa identified as major flashpoints, accounting for over 50% of the incidents. Osigwe urged politicians to control their supporters to prevent further violence and called on security personnel, including police and civil defense officers, to maintain neutrality and fulfill their duties without bias.

He emphasized the importance of a peaceful electoral process that would inspire voter confidence and counteract expectations of violence.