By Bosun Obafemi
Political violence has remained one of the greatest threats to democracy in Osun State and Nigeria as a whole. As the August 2026 Osun State Governorship Election approaches all contenders must be guided by law and civility.
Elections are expected to be peaceful contests of ideas, policies, and leadership qualities, but they often become battlefields where political actors and their supporters engage in intimidation, harassment, and violence.
This unfortunate trend reflects the dangerous “do-or-die” approach to politics, where winning elections becomes more important than serving the people. In my opinion, this mentality demonstrates that many members of the political class are more interested in personal gain, political power, and access to public resources than in improving the lives of ordinary citizens.
The recurring political clashes in Osun State should concern every citizen because violence undermines democracy, discourages voter participation, and damages public confidence in the electoral process. Instead of focusing on issues such as unemployment, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and economic development, political discussions are too often overshadowed by conflicts between rival parties. The real losers in such situations are the people, whose welfare should be the primary concern of every elected leader.
Political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Accord Party, and other registered political parties, all have an important responsibility to uphold democratic values. No political party is above the law, and none should encourage violence or tolerate supporters who engage in acts capable of disrupting public peace. Elections should never become a contest of intimidation or force but should remain a peaceful competition based on ideas, credibility, and public trust.
Every political actor must understand that democracy is governed by rules. Respect for the Constitution, electoral laws, court decisions, and the authority of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is essential for maintaining peace and stability. Political parties should educate their supporters on peaceful participation and discourage inflammatory speeches capable of provoking violence. Leaders must also accept electoral outcomes through lawful channels whenever disputes arise rather than encouraging confrontation.
The “do-or-die” mentality is dangerous because it creates the impression that political office is the only pathway to wealth and influence. When politics becomes a life-or-death struggle, desperate individuals are willing to manipulate institutions, sponsor violence, or exploit ethnic and community divisions simply to gain power. Such actions weaken democratic institutions and delay meaningful development. Public office should be viewed as an opportunity to serve the people with honesty, transparency, and accountability—not as a means of personal enrichment.
Furthermore, security agencies must remain professional, impartial, and committed to protecting all citizens regardless of political affiliation. The law should be applied equally to everyone, and individuals responsible for political violence should be investigated and prosecuted without fear or favour. Accountability is necessary to discourage future acts of violence and strengthen public confidence in democratic institutions.
As the Chief Executive of Osun State, Governor Ademola Adeleke also has an important responsibility to ensure peace, security, and political stability. As governor, he should continue to encourage dialogue among political stakeholders, support impartial law enforcement, and promote an atmosphere where every political party can operate freely without fear or intimidation. His leadership should inspire unity and demonstrate that the interests of the people come before partisan politics.
Furthermore, the Federal Government, under the leadership of the APC, also has a constitutional responsibility to protect democracy and ensure that federal institutions remain impartial. Federal agencies and security institutions should never be perceived as instruments for intimidating opposition parties or influencing the political process. Democracy thrives when every political party, regardless of whether it is in power or in opposition, competes on a level playing field under the rule of law. The use of perceived “federal might” to gain political advantage weakens public confidence in democratic institutions and should be avoided.
Citizens also have an important role to play. Voters should reject politicians who promote violence and instead support leaders with integrity, competence, and a genuine commitment to public service. Young people, who are often recruited as political thugs, should refuse to become instruments of violence for temporary financial rewards. Their energy and talents can be better invested in education, entrepreneurship, and community development.
Osun State deserves peaceful politics built on respect, dialogue, and democratic principles. Political violence benefits no one and only hinders the state’s progress. The APC, PDP, Accord Party, and every other political party must play by the rules of the democratic process, while Governor Ademola Adeleke, as the state’s leader, should continue to provide leadership that promotes peace, fairness, and security for all residents.
Democracy can only flourish when elections are peaceful, leaders are accountable, and political competition is guided by fairness rather than desperation. Only then will politics truly become a platform for serving the people instead of serving personal interests.
