Osun State leaders call for peace as election heats up and court ruling sparks tension

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, addressed politicians and supporters in Osun State, urging them to shun violence and embrace peace ahead of the August 15 gubernatorial election. He delivered the message at his palace in Ile‑Ifẹ while receiving Governor Ademola Adeleke’s reelection campaign team, which included campaign chair Prof Wale Oladipo, Deputy Governor Prince Kola Adewusi, Senator Lere Oyewumi and other officials. The Ooni emphasized that Osun is larger than any party, called for an end to hate speech, and said the world is watching.

The Osun Police Command later issued a statement urging calm after a Federal High Court in Osogbo dismissed APC council chairmen and councillors elected in the 2022 local elections, heightening tensions. Police spokesperson DSP Abiodun Ojelabi warned against lawlessness, said the force is monitoring statements and actions, and pledged to enforce the rule of law.