By Monsurat Abisoye
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Osun State Council, has expressed concern over the growing wave of political violence ahead of the state’s governorship election scheduled for August 15, 2026, warning that it poses a serious threat to peace, public safety, and the democratic process.
In a statement jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Adeyemi Aboderin, and Secretary, Olalekan Akindoju, the union cited a report by the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), which recorded 44 election-related violent incidents across Osun State between October 2025 and June 2026.
According to the statement, the incidents reportedly led to the deaths of 13 people, a situation the Council described as disturbing and requiring urgent intervention from all stakeholders.
The NUJ warned that continued killings, intimidation, and destruction of property linked to political activities could undermine the credibility of the election if immediate steps are not taken to curb the violence.
The Council called on security agencies to intensify efforts to prevent further violence by protecting lives and property, acting professionally and impartially, and ensuring that perpetrators are prosecuted regardless of political affiliation.
It also urged political parties, governorship candidates, and their supporters to conduct issue-based and peaceful campaigns, while cautioning political leaders against making inflammatory statements capable of inciting violence. The union appealed to residents, especially young people, not to allow themselves to be used for political violence or intimidation.
The NUJ stressed that the lives and future of the state’s youth should not be sacrificed for political interests and reaffirmed the commitment of journalists in Osun State to responsible journalism, factual reporting, and public enlightenment throughout the election period.
The Council further urged media practitioners to uphold professional ethics by avoiding sensational reports that could heighten political tensions and instead provide balanced and accurate coverage of political activities across the state.