By John Dike, Osogbo
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, has condemned the rising wave of political violence in the state ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election, describing the trend as a serious threat to peace, public safety and democratic governance.
It expressed concern over increasing cases of killings, intimidation and destruction of property linked to political activities, warning that the development could undermine the credibility of the electoral process if urgent measures are not taken.
In a statement signed by the state NUJ Chairman, Comrade Adeyemi Aboderin, and the Secretary, Comrade Olalekan Akindoju, the Council cited a report by the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), which revealed that 44 election-related violent incidents were recorded across Osun State between October 2025 and June 2026, resulting in 13 deaths.
According to the Council, the statistics should serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders, stressing that no political ambition is worth the loss of human lives.
The NUJ called on security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent further violence by protecting lives and property, maintaining professionalism and impartiality, and ensuring that all perpetrators are brought to justice, regardless of their political affiliation.
It also urged political parties, candidates and their supporters to embrace peaceful campaigns and issue-based politics, while cautioning political leaders against making inflammatory statements capable of inciting violence.
The Council emphasized that political actors have a responsibility to restrain their supporters and place the peace and overall interest of Osun State above personal and partisan considerations.
It further appealed to residents, particularly young people, not to allow themselves to be used as agents of violence, noting that their lives and future should never be sacrificed for political interests.
The NUJ reaffirmed the commitment of journalists in the state to responsible journalism, factual reporting and public enlightenment throughout the electioneering period.
The Council also urged media practitioners to uphold the ethics of the profession by avoiding sensational reports capable of escalating political tension, while ensuring accuracy, fairness and balance in their coverage of political activities.
