Osun 2026: Forestall Political Crisis, Group Urges FG, IGP

A group, the coalition of Civil Society Organisations For Good Governance, has appealed to the federal government and the Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu, to call the political actors fomenting trouble in Osun State to order, to prevent what could lead to a declaration of a state of emergency.

Briefing the press in Lagos on Tuesday about the situation in the State, the group spokesperson, Declan Ihekaire, said there was speculation that some people are sponsoring the crisis to create an avenue for the declaration of a state of emergency in the State before the governorship election slated for 15 August 2026.

He said that reports indicate the state police command is not taking proactive action to stop the crisis.

The group said it has received alarming accounts of specific acts of aggression already unfolding across the State. “In recent days, political thugs have brazenly invaded motor parks in several parts of Ogun State, attacking citizens, disrupting economic activities, and instilling fear in the people of the state,” Ihekaire said.

The group said any move that may lead to violence in the State must be resisted, more so since the election is very near.

He urged the federal government not to allow desperate politicians to push Nigeria into another constitutional crisis, just as he urged members of the security agencies to remain neutral on developments in the State, be professional and proactive in preventing violence.

“To the Nigeria Police Force and other security institutions: Return to the path of neutrality, protect citizens, not political sponsors.”

It therefore warned that anybody, group or organisation that sponsors the crisis against the people of Osun State, will be held liable.” We put every sponsor of violence, every thug, and every compromised security operative on notice. We are documenting names, faces and evidence. Anyone involved in the orchestration or execution of violence against innocent citizens in Osun State will be held accountable.

“We will drag such persons before the International Community and the International Criminal Court in The Hague. Political violence is a crime against humanity, and impunity will no longer be tolerated,” says the group.