Over 40,000 security personnel in Osun as election holds today

Osun state will elect its governor today amidst a significant security presence. The region is bracing for over 40,000 security personnel, including 15,000 policemen, 10,000 from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, and an undisclosed number of military and state security agents. The deployment of these forces began at the start of the week and continues to intensify, with military personnel stationed at strategic locations in the state capital and other local government areas.

Despite recent reports of political violence and killings linked to the election, residents remain committed to the democratic process. Sermons delivered at mosques across the state emphasized the importance of shunning violence and ensuring a free, fair, and credible election. Civil society leader Comrade Waheed Saka expressed optimism about voter turnout, attributing it to the people's determination to cast ballots for their preferred candidates.

In the face of threats and violence, security agencies, including the police, Department of State Security, military, and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, have been actively deployed to safeguard lives and property. Independent election observers from various organizations, such as The Kukah Centre, Yiaga Africa, Kimpact Development Initiative, National Democratic Institute, European Union, and the Nigerian Bar Association, are present to monitor the electoral process.

Political parties in the race include the All Progressives Congress, Accord Party, and 12 others. The incumbent governor, Ademola Adeleke, is representing the APC, while Bola Munirudeen Oyebamiji is the candidate for the APC. Both parties have been engaged in allegations and counter-allegations of violence and political unrest, with accusations of political thugs being mobilized and firearms possession by some supporters. Governor Adeleke has pledged to investigate these claims and hold perpetrators accountable.