Adeleke Campaign Accuses APC of Violence Ahead of Osun Governorship Election

The campaign organisation of Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has accused Nigeria's opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) of allegedly resorting to violence and intimidation as political campaigns intensify ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

In a statement issued on July 22 by the Imole Campaign Council (TICC), spokesperson Pelumi Olajengbe claimed the APC was attempting to terrorise residents despite what the campaign described as growing public support for Governor Adeleke.

The campaign maintained that the governor remained the favourite to win re-election, citing what it described as a steady influx of APC members defecting to the Accord Party.

According to the statement, democracy should be driven by the will of the people rather than intimidation or coercion. It argued that the increasing support for Governor Adeleke reflected public confidence in his administration and performance in office.

The campaign also accused the APC of using violence instead of engaging voters politically, insisting that electoral support should be earned freely and not through threats or force.

It further called on the APC to reflect on its past record and respect the electorate\'s right to choose their leaders without intimidation.

The Imole Campaign Council appealed to residents of Osun State to remain peaceful and reject acts of violence as the election approaches. It also urged eligible voters to turn out in large numbers on polling day.

The accusations come against the backdrop of reported incidents of violence in parts of Osun State ahead of the governorship election. The APC has denied responsibility for the unrest, accusing the Adeleke administration of being behind the violence.

The governorship election is scheduled for August 15, 2026, with political campaigns intensifying across the south-western Nigerian state.