Amnesty International has called on authorities in Nigeria to fulfil their obligation to promote, protect, respect, and fulfil human rights amidst disturbing signs of violence, intimidation and allegations of interference, ahead of the Osun State gubernatorial election slated for 15 August 2026.
The rights group, in a statement posted on its X handle on Tuesday said it has been receiving disturbing reports of violence, arrests of state government officials and allegations of plans to influence the elections. Noting that so far, at least 29 people have been killed in 73 incidents across the state.
“Authorities must ensure accountability for these reprehensible acts. All parties must commit to renounce violence and commit to a free and fair election,” it 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.”
Amnesty International identified clashes between supporters as fueling the instability and impunity in the state,calling on authorities to stamp out any potential impunity by ensuring these incidents are investigated and those suspected to be responsible, brought to justice.
“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 the government must take active steps to prevent bloody polls,” the rights group said.
It said 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. Adding that the right of the people of Osun state to vote freely and fairly in an atmosphere of respect for human rights must be upheld.
