Traders Demand Peaceful Governorship Election in Osun

On Wednesday, a group of petty traders in Osun State organized a peaceful rally in Osogbo to advocate for a commitment to a peaceful governorship election amid rising political tensions. The rally coincided with an election stakeholders’ forum led by Prof Joash Amupitan, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Participants displayed placards with messages such as “We want free and fair elections” and “Say no to violence,” urging security agents and stakeholders to protect lives and property during the election. Moriyeba Ogun, representing the group, expressed concerns that escalating tensions could lead to crises, risking the safety of residents.

She appealed for a secure environment on election day and called for a credible electoral process to prevent voter apathy. The governorship election is scheduled for August 15, with incumbent governor Ademola Adeleke seeking re-election under the Accord Party, while Bola Oyebamiji of the All Progressives Congress and Najeem Salaam of the African Democratic Congress are also key contenders.