Coalition Alleges Plot to Destabilize Osun Ahead August 15 Governorship Poll

… Warns Against State of Emergency

By Omidiran Seun

The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations for Good Governance has raised the alarm over escalating political tension in Osun State ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.

Addressing a press conference on Monday at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, the coalition said the situation in the state had gone beyond normal democratic competition and now poses a threat to constitutional democracy.

The group alleged that there are plans to sponsor violence and create instability in parts of the state in the weeks leading up to the election, as a pretext for declaring a state of emergency and suspending the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke.

It condemned any action capable of undermining democracy and called on relevant authorities to investigate its concerns and take proactive measures to prevent a breakdown of law and order.

The coalition also expressed concern over reported violent incidents in motor parks across Osun, where political thugs allegedly attacked citizens and disrupted commercial activities. It further alleged that some security personnel failed to respond appropriately, a claim it said must be independently investigated.

The group urged the Osun State Police Command and other security agencies to remain professional, neutral and fair in the discharge of their duties, noting that public confidence depends on their impartiality.

It appealed to the Federal Government to uphold the Constitution and ensure that no action is taken to undermine democratic governance in the state.

The coalition also called on political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), and other stakeholders to caution their supporters against violence, hate speech and other acts capable of disrupting public peace, stressing that elections must be decided through the ballot box.

It further urged the international community, including the United Nations, African Union, ECOWAS, European Union, United States and United Kingdom, to closely monitor developments in Osun and support efforts to ensure a peaceful and credible election.

The coalition reaffirmed its commitment to lawful and peaceful advocacy, urged citizens to report credible information on electoral violence to security agencies, and warned those allegedly planning violence to desist.