OSUN ELECTION: BEAM OF HOPE INITIATIVE FROWNS AT SHOOTING, CALLS ON SECURITY AGENTS TO INCREASE MEASURES
As preparations intensify for the August 15, 2026 Osun governorship election, the Beam of Hope Initiative for Society Development has condemned rising political violence in parts of the state, particularly the shooting spree at Ede and Osogbo axis.
This is as the Non-govermental organisation urge security agencies to strengthen measures to protect voters, candidates, and electoral materials.
In a statement issued by its Chairman BoT, Chief Adekunle Adedoye , the civil society group expressed concern over reported cases of thuggery, intimidation, and destruction of campaign materials in the state capital and its surroundings.
According to Beam of Hope, “*Violence and thuggery has no place in a democracy. We frown at any act that threatens the peace Osun people enjoy. Elections should be a contest of ideas, not a battle of fists and weapons*,” the Initiative stated.
Beam of Hope noted that attacks on political actors, voters, and the community at large create fear and could lead to voter apathy, especially among women and youths.
The group called on the Nigeria Police Force, NSCDC, Amotekun Corps, and other security agencies to increase visibility, intelligence gathering, and rapid response before and on election day.
“*We urge security agents to be proactive, not reactive. Deploy more personnel to flashpoints, secure INEC facilities, and ensure politicians and their supporters play by the rules. Voters must feel safe to come out and exercise their right*,” it said.
Beam of Hope Initiative also appealed to political parties, candidates, and community leaders to preach and embrace peace and ensure thuggery is not linked to their party.
“Osun’s reputation as a peaceful state must be protected. We totally condemn the shooting spree embarked upon, thereby injury people and creating fear. Let us settle our differences with ballots, not bullets,” the group added.
The Initiative pledged to continue its voter education and peace advocacy across LGAs ahead of the poll.