Osun 2026: TOM Calls on Political Leaders to Keep the Peace Before Elections

Table of Contents

• Declaration by Osun Masterminds
• Importance of Civility
• Aspirants and Campaigns
• Concerns About Governance
• Condemnation of Excessive Politicking
• Local Government Issues

The Osun Masterminds (TOM) has urged political participants in the state to uphold decorum in anticipation of the 2026 governorship election.

The group emphasized that maintaining civility is crucial for a credible democratic process.

In the November State of the State address delivered by its Executive Director, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, TOM called on candidates and their supporters to refrain from inflammatory rhetoric and concentrate on issue-oriented campaigns.

Prof. Oyedokun-Alli noted that the increasing number of aspirants, especially within the All Progressives Congress (APC), where more than 11 contenders have expressed interest, necessitates the prevention of internal disputes.

“We encourage aspirants and their supporters to uphold civility, prioritize party unity, and focus on issue-based campaigns. Engaging in smear campaigns could harm party cohesion,” he stated.

The group pointed out that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and various political leaders have consistently highlighted the importance of adhering to electoral laws to ensure stability before, during, and after the elections.

“We implore political contenders to heed this call and maintain the unity of our state. Unity is vital for grassroots mobilization and reconciliation,” Prof. Oyedokun-Alli remarked.

Regarding governance, he expressed concern that the state's administration has become secondary to political maneuvering as the 2026 race approaches, resulting in significant responsibilities being neglected.

“It has been observed that the Osun State government has overlooked governance in favor of next year’s reelection efforts. The governor is rarely seen or heard,” he lamented.

The organization also criticized what it termed excessive politicking by state officials and denounced the ongoing conflict between the ruling Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Congress over these issues.

“We do not exist in a banana republic. This contradicts the principles of democracy. It is intolerable to sacrifice governance for political advantage,” Prof. Oyedokun-Alli asserted.

The group highlighted stalled recruitment of teachers and healthcare workers, disorganized road construction, leadership challenges within the Amotekun Corps, and lack of welfare support as areas where the government has failed.

It condemned the prolonged delay in the recruitment process, stating that the promise has become a mere facade, leaving schools and health facilities understaffed during a critical period.

On road infrastructure, the group expressed frustration that residents are exasperated by the prolonged construction of roads, some ongoing for nearly two to three years without clear timelines for completion.

It further noted that leadership issues within the Osun Amotekun Corps have hindered its operations at a time when heightened vigilance from all state security agencies is necessary due to national insecurity.

Addressing local government matters, the group expressed dissatisfaction with the ongoing closure of local government secretariats, warning that essential statutory functions such as healthcare, agriculture, sanitation, and revenue generation have been severely impacted.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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