In the heat of Osun State’s pre-election season, the Accord recent public statement has ignited fresh debate about the role of violence in politics.
According to the party’s Chairman Pastor Victor Babalola Akande, the release accuses APC figures Timothy Owoeye, Adeleke Adebayo (Banik), and Remi Omowaiye of secretly aligning with Kazeem Oyewale better known as Aṣiri Eniba, a figure notorious for his alleged violent history. The party points to a circulating photograph of the trio at Aṣiri Eniba’s residence as evidence, claiming it has emboldened him to issue open threats against Accord members and even disrupt voter registration at an INEC office in Odo-Otin LGA.
The Accord’s call for the Police and DSS to investigate is framed as a civic duty to safeguard peace ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship poll. It references past incidents, including reports from the 2022 election where Aṣiri Eniba’s gang allegedly clashed with security agents.
The underlying fear: unchecked thuggery could create an atmosphere of tension that spills beyond election day, endangering ordinary citizens.
These are grave accusations that deserve prompt, impartial scrutiny from security agencies. No political actor, regardless of party, should be allowed to weaponize intimidation or associate with elements known for violence.
Democracy thrives on free choice, not fear.
Yet amid the noise, one reality stands unshaken: APC and thuggery can not truncate the electoral victory of Governor Ademola Adeleke.
Governor Adeleke’s mandate in 2022 was not handed to him on a platter; it was earned through a massive wave of grassroots support that defied every attempt at disruption. Today, that foundation is even stronger. His administration has prioritized visible deliverables—road rehabilitation, salary regularity, pension clearance, youth programs, and agricultural support that resonate deeply in Osun’s communities.
The governor’s personal charisma, once mocked, has matured into proven leadership that cuts across party lines.
Reports of widespread defections, endorsements, and organic rallies signal a broad coalition that no amount of hired muscle can dismantle.
The Accord’s alert, while highlighting real concerns about APC-linked intimidation, inadvertently underscores a deeper desperation on the other side. When a ruling party’s opponents must resort to public warnings about thug alliances, it betrays weakness rather than strength. Osun voters have repeatedly demonstrated maturity: they rejected manipulation in 2022 and will do so again. Attempts to invade registration centers or threaten supporters only harden opposition resolve and alienate undecided voters.
Governor Adeleke has consistently positioned himself as a champion of peaceful, credible elections. He has called on all parties to let the people’s will prevail, confident that his track record will translate into another decisive win potentially sweeping over 28 of 30 local governments.
To those tempted to deploy violence: Osun has outgrown that playbook. The people are awake, security agencies are watching (and must act decisively on credible reports), and the ballot remains the ultimate arbiter. Thuggery may create temporary chaos, but it can not rewrite the verdict written in the hearts of millions.
Come August 15 2026, Governor Ademola Adeleke’s victory will stand not because of force, but because each electorate has chosen performance over propaganda and progress over intimidation.
APC’s alleged dalliance with notorious elements will only accelerate its rejection. The mandate is secure; thuggery is obsolete. Osun will choose wisely, and history will record another triumph for the people’s will.
Osun people spoke through the ballots in 2022, and they will do the same on August 15th, 2026. It is good to know this now and have peace of mind
E-signed: Hon Comrade James Onifade
Advocate for Good Governance and A Better Judicial System
