Seventeen Candidates Sign Peace Accord Ahead of Osun Governorship Election
Seventeen days before the August 15, 2026 Osun State governorship election, Governor Ademola Adeleke, APC candidate Munirudeen Bola Oyebamiji, and twelve other contenders signed a peace accord to promote a free, fair and credible poll.
Parties and Representatives Present
The ceremony featured the Allied Peoples Movement (APM) standard‑bearer Adewale Adebayo and the African Action Congress (AAC) candidate Olajide Esan. Representatives of the 14 political parties contesting the election attended, with absent candidates delegated to party officials.
Notable Attendees and Witnesses
The accord was organised by the National Peace Committee (NPC) together with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). It was witnessed by NPC convener Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, Inspector‑General of Police Olatunji Disu (represented by AIG Fasuba Olabode), and INEC Chairman Prof. Ojo Amupitan. Traditional rulers, led by the Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, were also present.
Religious and Security Leaders’ Remarks
Former Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Cardinal John Onaiyekan urged all political actors to honour the accord and ensure a peaceful election. The police representative assured residents that officers had begun deployment and that only recognised security agencies would perform election duties.
INEC’s Commitment to Combat Vote‑Buying
INEC Chairman Prof. Ojo Amupitan praised the NPC initiative and said the commission is working with the EFCC, ICPC and the Office of the Attorney‑General of the Federation to attack vote‑buying head‑on. Plainclothes financial intelligence officers will patrol polling unit perimeters, and anyone attempting to buy or sell votes will be arrested and prosecuted under the Electoral Act 2026.
Traditional Ruler’s Appeal
The Ooni of Ife appealed to citizens not to be used by politicians to perpetrate violence or electoral malpractice, warning that political gladiators shift alliances while the populace bears the consequences. He stressed that Osun State is greater than any individual politician.
