A civil society coalition, The Osun Mastermind, has urged aspirants in the Osun 2026 governorship election to engage in issue‑based campaigns that promote peace and electoral transparency in the state.

The group’s executive director, Wasiu Oyedokun‑Alli, said this at a news conference on Saturday in Osogbo.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fixed August 8, 2026, for the Osun governorship election.

Mr Oyedokun‑Alli said the group was joining the clarion call by political stakeholders in the state for a peaceful governorship election.

He urged aspirants and their supporters to maintain civility, prioritise party unity, and engage in issue‑based campaigns to ensure a peaceful and transparent electoral process.

“Preventing political acrimony among the high number of aspirants within political parties who have declared their interest in the governorship election is key to preventing internal conflicts and campaigns of calumny.

“INEC and various political figures have stressed the need for adherence to electoral laws and guidelines to foster political stability and peace within the state before, during, and after the election.

“We urge political gladiators to abide by this call and preserve the oneness of our state, because a unified approach is crucial for effective grassroots mobilisation and the reconciliation of aggrieved party members,” he said.

Mr Oyedokun‑Alli commended President Bola Tinubu for declaring a state of emergency on insecurity in the country.

He, however, urged the federal government and the National Assembly to expedite action on the establishment of state police.

“The precarious situation of insecurity in recent times needs a radical shift and more proactive steps in tackling the menace.

“The military and other security agencies should be provided with more funds to purchase arms and ammunition in order to gain wider momentum,” he said.

Mr Oyedokun‑Alli, however, urged security stakeholders to support the fight against banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism for a peaceful Nigeria.

(NAN)