By John Dike, Osogbo
A coalition of civil society organisations under the aegis of the Coalition of Civil Society Organizations for Good Governance (CCSOGG) has expressed concern over rising political tension and violent incidents in Osun State, including the reported killing of a member of the Accord Party.
In a statement issued by its Publicity Secretary, Oluwasegun Fasakin, the group condemned what it described as increasing cases of political intimidation, destruction of campaign materials and attacks allegedly targeted at members of the Accord Party and supporters of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
The coalition alleged that some political actors were fueling hostility in the state through inflammatory comments and threats ahead of future electoral activities.
According to the statement, the vandalisation of campaign billboards, posters and branded vehicles belonging to political groups in parts of the state reflects a growing pattern of political aggression capable of undermining democratic stability.
CCSOGG also raised concerns over what it termed persistent attacks on the Adeleke administration, accusing opposition elements of sponsoring misinformation, political blackmail and actions aimed at frustrating governance in the state.
The coalition further alleged that some security operatives had failed to act impartially in handling politically related incidents, warning that such perceptions could weaken public confidence in democratic institutions.
It stressed that Osun State must not be allowed to descend into political violence, noting that citizens deserve peaceful and issue-based political engagement.
The group called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and ensure that political actors in the state conduct themselves responsibly in order to prevent further escalation of tension.
It also appealed to the Inspector General of Police, the Department of State Services (DSS), traditional rulers, religious leaders and civil society groups to closely monitor developments in the state and ensure accountability for acts of political violence regardless of party affiliation.
The coalition maintained that democracy can only thrive in an atmosphere of tolerance, fairness and respect for the rule of law, warning against any attempt to normalize violence and intimidation in the political process.
“Osun State must never become a battlefield for reckless political ambitions,” the statement added.
