Osun Candidates Sign Peace Accord ahead of the August 15 governorship election, pledging peaceful campaigns and credible electoral conduct
Osun State governorship candidates and their political parties have signed a peace accord ahead of the 15 August 2026 governorship election, committing to a peaceful, free and credible electoral process.
Also read:Â INEC Assures Nigerians of Credible 2027 Elections
The agreement was signed on Thursday at the Oasis Event Centre in Osogbo during an event organised by the National Peace Committee, led by Catholic cleric Bishop Matthew Kukah, as political parties sought to reassure voters ahead of the closely watched election.
Governor Ademola Adeleke attended the ceremony in person, while some of his major challengers were represented by party officials.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Oyebamiji, was represented by the party’s Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, alongside his running mate, Engr. Kayode Adereti.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) candidate was represented by the party chairman, Azeez Adesiji.
At the event, former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar, chairman of the National Peace Committee, represented by former Chief of Defence Staff General Martins Agwai, urged candidates, political parties and supporters to prioritise peace over political competition.
General Agwai called on stakeholders to ensure that campaign activities remained peaceful, respectful and guided by the law.
“We must reject violence, hate speech, misinformation and every action that could undermine public confidence in the electoral process. No electoral victory is worth the loss of a single life,” he said.
He added that the greatest achievement would be an election that reflects the genuine wishes of the people through a peaceful and transparent process.
After the signing, Bishop Kukah reminded candidates and political parties that the accord was only the beginning of their responsibility to maintain peace throughout the election period.
“We trust that these commitments will guide their words, their actions, and the conduct of their supporters throughout the remainder of the electoral process,” Kukah said.
The cleric also urged key institutions involved in the election, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, the media and civil society organisations, to contribute to a peaceful electoral environment.
Bishop Kukah called on INEC to maintain professionalism and impartiality, while urging security agencies to remain fair, vigilant and accountable in carrying out their duties.
The peace agreement comes as Osun enters the final phase of preparations for the governorship election, with candidates intensifying campaigns and seeking support from voters across the state.
Also read:Â INEC Assures Nigerians of Credible 2027 Elections
The accord is expected to serve as a framework for promoting peaceful participation and reducing tensions before, during and after the election.
