UNITY TIMES POLITICAL DESK
OSOGBO — Osun State is entering one of the most closely watched electoral periods in Nigeria as Governor Ademola Adeleke seeks another term in office amid growing political tension and heightened security concerns.
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The governorship election is scheduled for August 15, 2026, with the incumbent facing a competitive field of opposition candidates.
INEC has already warned that the state contains hundreds of electoral flashpoints and difficult-to-access locations. A risk assessment identified approximately 385 flashpoints and 200 difficult terrains across the state’s 30 local government areas.
That assessment is significant because Osun has a history of intense political competition, particularly between the PDP and APC.
Adeleke’s campaign has focused on infrastructure, social welfare, agriculture, health, education and the business environment. The governor has also called for a free and fair election.
The political atmosphere has, however, been complicated by disputes involving security agencies and allegations of partisan behaviour.
Opposition groups and civil society organisations previously demanded the removal of Osun Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan, accusing the command of failing to adequately address politically motivated violence. The police commissioner rejected such concerns and said the command would work with stakeholders to prevent violence.
The election therefore represents a major test for both Osun’s political actors and Nigeria’s electoral institutions.
A peaceful election will require more than deploying security personnel. Political parties must restrain their supporters, security agencies must demonstrate neutrality, and INEC must maintain public confidence in the voting and results process.
The real winner of August 15, observers say, should ultimately be the Osun voter.
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