Tensions Rise Ahead of 2026 Governorship Election in Osun State
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has issued a stern warning of a potential N5 billion defamation lawsuit against the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) in response to alarming claims made by the party regarding a supposed plot of violence aimed at the upcoming 2026 governorship election.
Allegations of Violent Intentions by PDP Chieftain
The APC’s Director of Media and Information, Kola Olabisi, raised concerns following the circulation of a viral video featuring an unidentified member of the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In the video, the PDP chieftain allegedly discussed a plan to bomb the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State, expressing fears that the party may not secure victory in the upcoming election.
Olabisi quoted the PDP official, who ominously suggested, “It is the example of what the APC would do in Osun State that it did in Edo State last week,” indicating intentions to resort to violence to influence electoral outcomes.
### Call for Investigation
Olabisi criticized both Governor Adeleke and the PDP leadership for their silence on the issue, suggesting that their lack of condemnation renders them as prime suspects in the alleged violent scheme. He urged the Inspector-General of Police to launch an investigation into the matter, emphasizing the need for accountability and preventive measures to avert potential electoral violence.
Governor Adeleke’s Response
In a swift reaction, Mr. Olawale Rasheed, spokesperson for Governor Adeleke, condemned the allegations as “irresponsible” and “baseless.” He asserted that the governor has no involvement in any plans to attack INEC or its officials and threatened to pursue legal action against Olabisi unless a retraction is made. Rasheed stated, “This deliberate falsehood will have consequences,” and expressed confidence in the PDP’s support among the people of Osun State.
As the political landscape in Osun State grows increasingly charged ahead of the 2026 governorship election, both parties are gearing up for what promises to be a contentious battle. The allegations of violence and the subsequent threats of legal action highlight the tense atmosphere as each party seeks to assert its position in the lead-up to the elections.
