The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has warned political actors and their supporters against allowing the August 15 Osun State governorship election to degenerate into violence, urging all stakeholders to prioritise peace and democratic stability.
The warning comes amid heightened political tensions and reports of election-related violence across parts of the state ahead of Saturday’s poll. Recent incidents have involved rival political camps trading accusations over attacks, while security agencies have intensified preparations for the election.
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The NBA’s position underscores growing concern that inflammatory rhetoric, political confrontations and allegations of electoral manipulation could further raise tensions in the final days of the campaign.
The association’s appeal comes as authorities and political parties make final preparations for the election. Governor Ademola Adeleke has declared Friday, August 14, a work-free day for state public servants to enable eligible voters to travel and prepare for the poll.
The election has also attracted substantial security attention, with thousands of personnel expected to be deployed across the state. Political parties and civil society organisations, however, have expressed differing views over whether the security presence will reassure voters or contribute to voter intimidation and apathy.
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With the contest entering its final stage, the NBA’s warning places renewed emphasis on the responsibility of candidates, parties, security agencies and voters to ensure that political competition does not translate into bloodshed.
The association’s intervention is particularly significant given concerns over the potential consequences of post-election disputes. Stakeholders have repeatedly urged contestants to pursue grievances through established legal channels rather than resorting to violence.
