WED AUG 12 2026-theGBJournal| Amnesty International has urged Nigerian authorities to uphold and protect human rights ahead of the Osun State gubernatorial election on August 15, amid growing reports of violence, intimidation and alleged attempts to interfere with the vote.
The rights group said it had documented at least 29 deaths in 73 incidents across the state, alongside reports of arrests of state government officials and alleged plans to influence the election.
It called on authorities to ensure accountability for the violence and urged all political parties to renounce violence and commit to a free and fair poll.
All parties must commit to renounce violence and commit to a free and fair election.
Amnesty said Investigation by teams on the ground shows escalating violence and build up for more clashes in: Osogbo, Ede, Ife, Oriade, Ijebu-Ijesha, Ilobu, and Ikire.
Fueling the instability and impunity in the state, are reports of supporters of some politicians violently targeting political opponents, real or perceived.
”The authorities must stamp out any potential impunity by ensuring these incidents are investigated and those suspected to be responsible, brought to justice,” it urged.
According to Amnesty, the potential turmoil being stirred up by various groups ahead of the gubernatorial election in Osun State should send a clear signal to the Nigerian authorities of the imminent violence ahead of the polls and government must take active steps to prevent bloody poll.
”The authorities at all levels and security agencies must stand neutral and not engage in any act that may or can be perceived to favour any political party or candidate.
The right of the people of Osun state to vote freely and fairly in an atmosphere of respect for human rights must be upheld.”
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