Opinion: Osun Must Not Become a Theatre of Political Violence
By Waliu Adetokun, Osogbo
The growing insecurity and political tension in Osun State have become matters of serious concern for many residents who once took pride in the state’s reputation as one of the most peaceful in Nigeria. Over the past months, a series of violent incidents linked to political activities have raised questions about the effectiveness and neutrality of law enforcement agencies, particularly the Osun State Police Command under Commissioner of Police Ibrahim Gotan.
The concerns did not begin today. On May 8, 2025, reports emerged of the vandalisation of political billboards across parts of the state. Shortly afterwards, statues of former and current governors located at the Abeere Roundabout were destroyed by suspected political thugs. While the police issued statements condemning the incidents, many residents were disappointed that no meaningful action appeared to follow. To date, there is little public information regarding arrests or prosecutions connected to the attacks.
Barely a month later, another disturbing development occurred. Armed hoodlums reportedly unleashed violence in several locations, including Akoda-Ede Junction, Aisu-Ede Junction, Owode-Ede Junction and parts of Oke-Fia in Osogbo. Residents were left terrified as gunshots rang out in areas that had previously enjoyed relative peace. The police later stated that officers pursued the suspects, but many citizens remain unconvinced by explanations that have failed to produce tangible results.
There was also the widely publicised allegation by popular musician B-RED, son of Governor Ademola Adeleke, who claimed that suspected political thugs were trailing him around Oke-Fia. The allegation generated public debate, but many observers expected a more thorough investigation capable of reassuring residents that no individual or group is above the law.
The controversy surrounding local government administration in Osun has further heightened tensions. Critics have accused security agencies of failing to maintain the neutrality expected of them in a democratic society. Whether these accusations are justified or not, the perception of bias is dangerous because it erodes public confidence in institutions responsible for maintaining law and order.
Perhaps the most tragic incident occurred on June 21, 2026, when a 14-year-old boy, Ezekiel Olapade, reportedly lost his life in Ilobu, Irepodun Local Government Area. According to reports, the teenager was allegedly shot during a politically motivated attack. The incident transformed what should have been a joyful Father’s Day celebration into a day of grief for his family and community.
The death of a child under such circumstances should concern every well meaning citizen, regardless of political affiliation. At 14 years old, Ezekiel was not even of voting age. His death serves as a painful reminder of the dangers posed by political violence and intolerance.
The responsibility of the police is clear: to protect lives, preserve peace and ensure that those who break the law face justice. When violent incidents occur repeatedly without visible consequences for perpetrators, questions naturally arise about the commitment of law enforcement agencies to these responsibilities.
For this reason, many stakeholders believe that the Inspector-General of Police should carefully review the security situation in Osun State and consider the growing calls for the redeployment of Commissioner Ibrahim Gotan. Such a decision should not be viewed as punitive but as a step towards restoring public confidence in the security architecture of the state.
There is also a need for political leaders across party lines to exercise restraint and place the interests of the people above partisan considerations. Elections should be contests of ideas and policies, not exercises marked by intimidation, violence and bloodshed.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and relevant security authorities must ensure that every political actor operates within the boundaries of the law. No individual should be allowed to threaten the peace of Osun State for personal or political gain.
The people of Osun deserve a secure environment where they can freely express their political preferences without fear. Democracy thrives when citizens vote according to their convictions, not when they are forced into silence by violence and intimidation.
Politics should never become a matter of life and death. In a true democracy, leaders emerge through ballots, not bullets. Osun must not be allowed to drift further down a dangerous path that threatens its long-standing tradition of peace and stability.