OSOGBO, Nigeria — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged political parties, candidates and their supporters participating in the Osun State governorship election to respect the peace accord signed ahead of the poll.
The commission said adherence to the agreement was essential to ensuring a peaceful, credible and transparent election, particularly amid heightened political tension and concerns over violence in some parts of the state.
INEC stressed that the responsibility for maintaining peace during the electoral process did not rest solely with security agencies, urging political actors to play their part by controlling their supporters and avoiding actions capable of escalating tensions.
The commission’s appeal comes as political parties intensify their final preparations for the election, with the contest attracting significant attention across the state.
INEC said candidates and their political parties must demonstrate commitment to democratic principles by respecting the rules of the election and accepting the need for peaceful competition.
The commission also urged politicians to avoid inflammatory statements, intimidation, threats and other forms of conduct capable of undermining the credibility of the poll or discouraging voters from participating.
The peace accord is intended to commit participating political actors to peaceful campaigns and responsible conduct before, during and after the election.
INEC maintained that security and peaceful conduct were critical components of the electoral process, noting that voters must be allowed to exercise their franchise without fear or intimidation.
The commission’s position comes against the backdrop of concerns raised by political parties and civil society groups over alleged attacks, arrests and other incidents linked to the election campaign.
Stakeholders have repeatedly called on security agencies to protect voters, electoral officials, party agents and other participants while ensuring that law enforcement is carried out impartially.
INEC further encouraged candidates to channel grievances through established legal and electoral mechanisms rather than resorting to confrontation or actions that could threaten public order.
The commission said political differences were expected in a democratic contest but should not be allowed to degenerate into violence.
It also urged supporters of the various parties to exercise restraint and avoid spreading unverified information that could inflame political tensions or trigger clashes.
As the election approaches, attention is increasingly focused on the ability of political parties and security agencies to maintain calm across the state.
INEC reiterated that the credibility of the election would depend not only on the conduct of electoral officials but also on the willingness of political actors to respect the rules and commitments they had made.
The commission therefore called on all candidates and parties to uphold the peace agreement and put the interests of Osun residents above partisan considerations.
It said a peaceful election would strengthen public confidence in the democratic process and allow voters to freely choose their preferred candidate without intimidation.
With the poll drawing closer, INEC’s appeal has placed renewed emphasis on political responsibility, restraint and respect for the peace accord as parties enter the final stage of the electoral contest.
