#OsunDecides2026: Voters Flee As Notorious APC Thug ‘Big Hammer’ Disrupts Voting In Ejigbo, Damages Vehicle

Voters and election officials fled in disarray as “Big Hammer,” a notorious thug allied with the All Progressives Congress (APC), allegedly disrupted voting at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) governorship candidate Najeem Salam's polling unit in Ejigbo Local Government Area of Osun State. The incident on Saturday left many voters and election agents running in different directions, causing panic and chaos.

One witness recounted jumping over a fence to escape the attack, expressing shock at the unprovoked violence. This incident is a cause for concern as it adds to a series of reports of attacks and disruptions across Osun State during the governorship election. Another video showed a damaged vehicle, highlighting the destruction caused by the violence.

The ADC candidate, a significant contender, highlighted the degeneration of the electoral process into chaos, raising questions about the integrity of the voting. The controversy deepened with Governor Ademola Adeleke's allegations of an APC plot to disrupt the election, accusing them of bringing a police officer from Port Harcourt to "disorganise the vote."

Adeleke urged security agencies to monitor the alleged officer's activities closely. The APC's response further fueled tensions, with claims of interference in the electoral process, particularly in Ede, Adeleke's hometown. The situation has heightened concerns over violence, intimidation, and efforts to interfere with the voting process, with calls from political parties and stakeholders for security agencies to protect voters, electoral officials, and party agents.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies are expected to maintain order, preventing acts that could disenfranchise voters. As the election continues, the focus remains on ensuring that voters can cast their ballots freely and safely.