The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, has strongly condemned the escalating political violence ahead of the August 15, 2026, governorship election, warning that the trend threatens peace, public safety, and the integrity of the democratic process. The union expressed alarm over a surge in killings, intimidation, and property destruction linked to political activities across the state. In a joint statement, the NUJ called for urgent intervention by all stakeholders to prevent further bloodshed and ensure a peaceful electoral process.
The statement, signed by Osun NUJ Chairman Adeyemi Aboderin and Secretary Olalekan Akindoju, referenced a report by the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) that recorded 44 election-related violent incidents in Osun State between October 2025 and June 2026. These incidents resulted in the deaths of 13 people, a figure the union described as deeply concerning and a clear indicator of the dangers facing the state’s democracy. “The figures should serve as a wake-up call to all stakeholders. No political ambition is worth the loss of human lives,” the statement emphasized.
The NUJ urged security agencies to intensify efforts to protect lives and property, stressing the need for professionalism, impartiality, and swift justice for perpetrators of violence, regardless of their political affiliations. It also called on political parties, governorship candidates, and their supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns focused on policy and development issues rather than incitement and intimidation. The union specifically cautioned political leaders against making inflammatory statements that could spark violence, urging them to prioritize the well-being of Osun State over partisan interests.
In addition, the NUJ appealed to residents, especially young people, not to be exploited as tools of political violence or intimidation during the electioneering period. The council stressed that the lives and future of the state’s youth must not be sacrificed for political gain, urging them to resist any attempts to lure them into unlawful activities. The union reiterated its commitment to responsible journalism, factual reporting, and public enlightenment throughout the election campaign.
Media practitioners were also urged to uphold professional ethics by avoiding sensationalism that could heighten political tension. The NUJ encouraged balanced, accurate, and fair coverage of political events across Osun State to foster an informed and peaceful electoral environment. As the 2026 governorship election approaches, the union’s warning underscores the critical need for unity, restraint, and accountability from all actors to ensure a credible and peaceful democratic outcome.
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