Osun Election: Analyst Urges Restraint, Says No Office Is Worth Bloodshed

Political affairs analyst Ladi Awotunde has warned political actors in Osun State against violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election, saying no political office is worth the loss of human lives.

Speaking on Beyond the Headlines hosted by Nifemi Oguntoye, Awotunde said the State had witnessed rising political tension in recent weeks, fuelled by disputes linked to local government issues and clashes involving political supporters.

He described elections as “not a do-or-die affair” and urged leaders of the major political parties to prioritise peace over electoral victory.

“The sanctity of life needs to be preserved.

Election is not a do-or-die matter and we don’t have to shed blood to get to wherever we want to get to,” he said.

Awotunde lamented reports of politically motivated killings and attacks, stressing that every loss of life was unacceptable regardless of political affiliation.

He called on the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies to remain impartial and ensure that residents could vote without fear.

“People need to have confidence that they can go out and exercise their franchise without being afraid of being killed or injured.

Democracy is not beautiful when people cannot exercise their franchise without fear.”

He also appealed to the two leading governorship candidates, traditional rulers, elders and President Bola Tinubu to work towards a peaceful electoral process.

“The office is big, but it is not big enough when there’s blood stain on the floor. It’s not worth it.”