As Osun State prepares for the 2026 governorship election, a disturbing pattern has emerged: political violence and killings are becoming increasingly frequent across different communities. Reports of deaths linked directly or indirectly to political tensions have heightened concerns among residents, stakeholders, and observers about the state's democratic future.

 

Among those whose deaths have continued to generate concern are Kolade in Ikire, Baba Isila in Osogbo, a vulcaniser in Akoda, Ezekiel Olapade in Ilobu, Rogba in Esa-Oke, and Remi Abass of Irewole Local Government. The killing of a teen, Ezekiel Olapade, in Ilobu remains one of the high-profile cases, drawing widespread attention and sparking fresh concerns over the growing climate of violence in Osun State. His death, alongside those of other victims across various communities, has intensified calls for justice and greater efforts to protect lives as political activities gather momentum ahead of the governorship election.

 

The critical question is: How many more lives must be lost before political actors place the sanctity of human life above electoral ambitions?

 

Osun has traditionally been regarded as one of the most politically conscious and relatively peaceful states in the South-West. However, recent incidents of violence, attacks on perceived political opponents, and recurring clashes in some communities suggest a worrying trend that could threaten the peaceful conduct of the 2026 governorship election if not urgently addressed.

 

While political interests continue to shape public narratives around these incidents, the real victims remain ordinary citizens, youths, artisans, traders, community leaders, and party supporters whose lives have been cut short. The deaths recorded across Ikire, Osogbo, Akoda, Ilobu, Esa-Oke, and Irewole have left families grieving and communities demanding answers.

 

The responsibility now lies with security agencies, political leaders, traditional rulers, civil society organisations, and the electorate. Security agencies must ensure thorough investigations and prosecute anyone found culpable, regardless of political affiliation. Political actors must also commit themselves to issue-based campaigns and discourage supporters from engaging in violence.

 

As the countdown to the 2026 governorship election continues, Osun people deserve a democratic process driven by ideas, policies, and development, not fear, intimidation, and bloodshed.

 

PULSE QUESTION

 

With the growing list of victims from Kolade in Ikire to Baba Isila in Osogbo, the vulcaniser in Akoda, Ezekiel Olapade in Ilobu, Rogba in Esa-Oke, and Remi Abass in Irewole, do you think political violence is becoming the biggest threat to the 2026 Osun governorship election?

 

What should be done to stop the killings before election day?

 

Drop your thought in the CS