The Osun State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has officially spoken out against the growing trend of political hostility as the state prepares for the governorship election on August 15, 2026. The union emphasized that these violent patterns jeopardize public safety and the integrity of the entire electoral process.
Led by Chairman Adeyemi Aboderin and Secretary Olalekan Akindoju, the organization highlighted data from the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI), which documented 44 violent episodes between October 2025 and June 2026. These incidents tragically claimed 13 lives, a toll the union labeled as deeply troubling.
In their official address, the NUJ urged security forces to act with impartiality and hold all perpetrators accountable for their actions. Furthermore, they called upon political candidates to steer their campaigns toward substantive issues rather than rhetoric that might provoke instability. Party leaders were specifically warned to avoid inflammatory language and to actively discourage their followers from engaging in aggression.
The union also directed a strong appeal to the youth of Osun, advising them to resist being manipulated by political actors. The NUJ pledged that local journalists will continue to prioritize ethical, balanced, and accurate reporting to ensure that the electoral process remains transparent and peaceful.
