The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently address reported cases of political violence, threats and intimidation ahead of the August 15 Osun State governorship election.
SERAP, in a statement, called on INEC to identify, document and publicly report incidents of political violence and take preventive measures to protect voters and candidates.
The organisation also urged the electoral commission to refer credible allegations of electoral violence and related offences to the Nigeria Police Force and other relevant security agencies for investigation and prosecution.
According to SERAP, reports indicate that 56 politically related violent incidents and 14 fatalities have been recorded in Osun over the past 12 months, with 36 incidents allegedly occurring between May and June alone. The reported incidents include shootings, killings, physical attacks, intimidation, destruction of property and harassment.
SERAP said victims of political violence and their families should have access to justice and effective remedies, while credible evidence of serious or widespread violence should be preserved for possible accountability proceedings.
The organisation further urged INEC to strengthen threat assessment, election monitoring and coordination with security agencies, noting that the commission has recognised political violence as a serious electoral security concern in the state.
SERAP also cited Section 97 of the Electoral Act 2026, which prohibits threats of force or violence during political campaigns, as well as constitutional provisions guaranteeing political participation, freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, association and equality.
It urged security agencies to ensure the protection of voters, candidates, journalists, observers and civil society organisations without political discrimination.
SERAP stressed that Osun voters should be able to participate in the election freely and safely, without fear, intimidation or coercion.
The organisation called on INEC to take urgent steps to protect the credibility and integrity of the August 15 governorship election.
SERAP Urges INEC to Act on Political Violence Ahead of Osun Election
