By Lateef Ibrahim
Efforts to promote a peaceful atmosphere ahead of the 2026 Osun State governorship election came under scrutiny on Wednesday after the absence of the ruling Accord Party and the All Progressives Congress (APC) dominated discussions at a stakeholders’ peace dialogue in Osogbo.
The meeting, organized by the Osun State Police Command in collaboration with other security agencies, brought together representatives of political parties, electoral officials and security stakeholders to discuss measures for ensuring a violence-free electoral process.
However, participants expressed concern that the two major political parties in the state were not represented at the gathering, a development many described as a setback to ongoing peace-building efforts.
Governorship candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement (APM), , said the absence of the parties was troubling, especially given the history of political tensions between their supporters.
According to him, meaningful peace discussions require the participation of all major stakeholders, particularly parties that have often been at the centre of political confrontations in the state.
Similarly, BOOT Party chairman in Osun State, , questioned the effectiveness of the dialogue without the involvement of the APC and Accord, arguing that their presence was crucial to achieving consensus on peaceful conduct during the election period.
Security agencies, meanwhile, used the occasion to remind political actors of their responsibilities ahead of the polls. Osun State Commissioner of Police, , urged parties and candidates to notify law enforcement agencies before organising rallies and political gatherings to enable adequate security deployment and prevent possible clashes.
He also warned against acts capable of inflaming tensions, including the destruction of opponents’ campaign materials.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) also raised concerns about recent incidents of violence in the state. Osun Resident Electoral Commissioner, , said reports of violence and loss of lives had heightened anxiety among residents and political stakeholders.
She called on political parties and their supporters to embrace issue-based campaigns, reject hate speech and misinformation, and adhere strictly to the rule of law throughout the electoral process.
