Fear In Osun! Ooni Expresses Deep Concern Over Escalating Political Tension, Calls For Peace

The monarch made the appeal on Tuesday while receiving the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Joash Amupitan, during a courtesy visit to the palace in Ile-Ife.

Speaking on behalf of traditional rulers in the state, the Ooni said the growing political atmosphere had become a major source of anxiety for residents and called on the electoral commission to remain impartial and allow the people to freely choose their leaders.

“To be honest, all the traditional rulers here have one message for you. There is serious political tension in Osun State, and it is becoming overwhelming for our people,” he said.

He explained that traditional rulers had spent several hours discussing the situation, stressing that they could not remain silent while the state faced increasing political uncertainty.

“As custodians of our ancestral heritage, we must rise above partisan politics. Osun State is greater than any politician or political interest. We occupy these thrones in trust for our forefathers, and our duty is to uphold justice, fairness and integrity at all times,” the monarch stated.

The Ooni said traditional rulers would continue to engage political actors across party lines, offering sincere advice aimed at promoting peace and prioritising the welfare of the people.

“We speak to both the ruling party and the opposition. Our message is always the same: put the people first and act with fairness, justice and sincerity. The level of political tension in Osun has become deeply troubling,” he added.

Appealing directly to the INEC chairman, the monarch urged the commission to preserve its independence and ensure the election is conducted without bias.

“We appreciate the confidence reposed in you and the independence granted to your office. You have a rare opportunity to make history through your leadership. While perfection may not be possible, you must remain committed to fairness, justice and honour,” he said.

The Ooni emphasised that Osun people were expecting a peaceful electoral process and called on INEC to play its role as an impartial umpire.

“We do not want anything that will disrupt the peace in our state. We want an election that is free, fair and credible. As the electoral umpire, you have the responsibility to reduce the tension and ensure the process is transparent,” he said.

He also noted that the responsibility for delivering a credible election rests squarely with the electoral commission, adding that the President had already provided the necessary support for INEC to carry out its constitutional mandate independently.

“The President will not conduct this election for you. He has empowered your commission to perform its duties professionally. That is why everyone is looking up to INEC. The August 15, 2026 governorship election is significant because it will set the tone ahead of the 2027 general elections,” the monarch said.

The Ooni concluded by warning that political interests should never be allowed to override the peace and stability of the state.

“Politicians may change alliances at any time, but it is the people who bear the consequences. We cannot continue to allow political tension to threaten the peace of Osun State. Enough is enough,” he declared.