Adeleke Seeks Visa Ban, Sanctions Against Osun Opposition Leaders Over Poll Violence

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has called on the international community to impose visa restrictions and economic sanctions on opposition politicians and security officials he accused of encouraging political violence ahead of the August 15 governorship election. He made the appeal on Monday in Osogbo while receiving a British Government delegation on a pre-election peace mission to the state.

The governor said some opposition figures were allegedly backing violent attacks carried out by their supporters, resulting in killings and shootings in different parts of Osun. He maintained that anyone found sponsoring or supporting political violence should face serious consequences, including international sanctions.

Adeleke also appealed to security agencies to investigate and prosecute both those directly involved in the attacks and those suspected of financing or encouraging them. He said political affiliation should not protect anyone from facing the law if evidence links them to violent acts.

The governor stated that his administration does not tolerate political thuggery and insisted that anyone connected to violence, including members of his own family or political camp, should be arrested and prosecuted if found guilty. He also praised security agencies for their efforts to reduce the violence but said more action was needed against those behind the attacks.

According to information released by the state government, another member of the Accord Party was recently killed in Ijebu-Jesa, raising the number of party members reportedly killed since the start of the 2026 governorship campaign to five. The government also said 15 other party members had suffered serious injuries in attacks allegedly carried out by suspected opposition thugs.

Adeleke argued that elections should not lead to bloodshed and said Osun residents deserve the opportunity to vote in a peaceful atmosphere. He maintained that those who create fear and violence for political gain should be held accountable.

The British delegation was led by Senior Political Adviser Wale Adebajo, who explained that the visit formed part of efforts to support peaceful, credible and transparent elections in Osun State. The delegation assured the governor that the United Kingdom would continue engaging political stakeholders to encourage peaceful conduct before, during and after the governorship election.

Political tension has continued to rise in Osun in recent months, with the ruling Accord Party and opposition groups repeatedly accusing each other of attacks, intimidation and other acts capable of disrupting the election. Security agencies have continued to appeal to political parties and their supporters to conduct campaigns peacefully and avoid actions that could threaten the electoral process.