Political Parties Sign Peace Accord Ahead of Osun Governorship Election

Political parties contesting the August 15 Osun State governorship election have signed a peace accord, pledging to ensure a peaceful, free and credible electoral process.

The peace accord was facilitated by the Osun Development Association during a Governance and Election Integrity Summit held in Osogbo, the Osun State capital.

The summit brought together key stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies, traditional and religious leaders, political parties and civil society organisations, as preparations intensify for the governorship poll.

According to the organisers, the initiative was designed to promote peace and reassure voters of a safe and conducive environment before, during and after the election.

Speaking at the event, the Osun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Oluwatoyin Babalola, said safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process is a shared responsibility. She urged all stakeholders to place peace, patriotism and the interest of the state above political ambitions.

Delivering the keynote address titled, "Peace Before Progress: Why the 2026 Osun Election is a Referendum on Southwest Nigeria's Capacity for Peaceful, Development-Driven Democracy," the keynote speaker stressed that democracy cannot flourish in an atmosphere of fear, violence and intimidation.

The summit concluded with representatives of participating political parties signing the peace accord, committing themselves to peaceful campaigns and adherence to the principles of free, fair and credible elections.