July 30, 2026
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has accused the Nigeria Police Force and the All Progressives Congress (APC) of orchestrating violence, intimidation, and politically motivated arrests ahead of the state’s August 15, 2026, governorship election.
Speaking at a Peace Summit held in preparation for the election, Adeleke alleged that his administration, members of his political party, and residents of the state had come under sustained attacks over the past three months. He warned that the security situation was deteriorating and appealed for urgent intervention to prevent further escalation.
The governor claimed that eight members of his party had been killed while more than 20 others sustained gunshot injuries during the period, alleging that no meaningful arrests or prosecutions had been made despite what he described as available evidence.
Adeleke also criticised the recent arrest of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Hon. Teslim Igbalaye, describing the operation as politically motivated. He further alleged that dozens of members of the Accord Party had been detained and transferred outside Osun State without due legal process.
The governor called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that all detained individuals are returned to Osun State and, where necessary, prosecuted in courts within the state in accordance with the law. He also urged the National Peace Committee and President Bola Tinubu to intervene to ensure impartial policing and a peaceful electoral process.
Reaffirming his commitment to peace, Adeleke said his supporters had exercised restraint despite the alleged attacks and appealed for a free, fair, and credible election.
The allegations come amid heightened political tension in Osun State ahead of the governorship election.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigeria Police Force, the All Progressives Congress (APC), former Governor Gboyega Oyetola, and other individuals mentioned by the governor had not publicly responded to the allegations.
