CISLAC Raises Concerns Over Violence and Vote Buying in Osun Election

The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has raised alarms about killings, political violence, voter intimidation, and alleged vote buying that could threaten the credibility of the upcoming governorship election in Osun State this Saturday.

CISLAC noted that the rising tensions in the state, along with reports of electoral offenses and increased security measures, are discouraging voters from freely casting their votes. This situation could also harm public trust in the electoral process.

In a statement from its Executive Director, Auwal Musa, on Wednesday, CISLAC said its observations of the pre-election environment, based on independent monitoring and media reports, revealed a troubling pattern of violence, intimidation, and voter bribes ahead of the poll on August 15.

The organization pointed to various reported incidents, including one from PREMIUM TIMES about the killing of 14-year-old Ezekiel Olapade in Ilobu, Irepodun Local Government Area. He was reportedly hit by a stray bullet during a clash.

CISLAC also mentioned the killing of Kolade Eluyera in Irewole Local Government Area, the reported shooting of a political office holder in Osogbo, and the murder of a youth political leader in Esa-Oke.

However, CISLAC acknowledged that the circumstances and accountability for some of these incidents are still under investigation. "While the circumstances and responsibility for some of these incidents remain subject to investigation, the reported loss of lives and increasing tensions across parts of the state demonstrate the urgent need for all stakeholders to prioritize peace and the protection of citizens," the statement said.

The organization stressed that the reported deaths and rising political tensions show a critical need for security agencies and political figures to focus on protecting lives before, during, and after the election.

Political Thugs Must Be Stopped

CISLAC specifically expressed worry about the alleged recruitment, funding, and use of political thugs and other violent agents to scare voters, attack rivals, and disrupt political activities.

It warned that using violence as a strategy in elections could create a fearful environment where voters cannot make independent choices. "Such practices create an atmosphere of fear and could prevent citizens from exercising their constitutional right to vote freely and peacefully," the statement added.

The group called on candidates, political parties, and their supporters to reject violence immediately, disband agents of intimidation, and commit to peaceful, issue-focused participation in the elections.

Vote Buying Threat

Aside from violence, CISLAC raised alarms about alleged vote buying and other forms of voter inducement. It described these actions as a threat to the integrity of the election.

CISLAC stated that these practices take advantage of economic hardship and the vulnerability of voters, turning elections into money transactions instead of a true reflection of citizens' choices.

It urged law enforcement and electoral authorities to thoroughly investigate allegations of electoral offenses and to prosecute offenders regardless of their political ties or status.

CISLAC also highlighted recent arrests of government officials and others over alleged electoral crimes, along with reports of recovered cash, Permanent Voter Cards, and voter registers, which require close attention.

The organization questioned the recent deployment of armed military personnel to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office in Osun State before the election. It stated that any military presence related to an election must have a clear legal and operational reason.

"Any deployment of the military in connection with an electoral process must have a clear legal and operational basis, remain strictly within its defined mandate, and be guided by the principles of neutrality, proportionality, and respect for the rights of citizens," CISLAC said.

The organization also called on all security agencies involved in the election to follow clear rules of engagement, respect basic rights, and maintain political neutrality. It urged the Nigeria Police Force to strengthen intelligence-led operations in identified high-risk areas, ensure the safety of voters and electoral personnel, investigate reported killings and attacks, and hold those responsible accountable.