Ooni of Ife Urges Peace, Unity as Osun Governorship Election Draws Closer.
The Ooni of Ife, Oba xvAdeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has called on political leaders, candidates, supporters and residents of Osun State to prioritise peace, unity and responsible conduct ahead of the August 15, 2026 governorship election.
The monarch made the appeal amid heightened political activities and concerns over possible tensions surrounding the off cycle election. His call reflects growing efforts by traditional institutions, political stakeholders and civil society groups to promote a peaceful electoral environment in the state.
According to reports, the Ooni reaffirmed his commitment to peaceful coexistence across political divides and urged all stakeholders to place the interests of Osun State above partisan ambitions. He also emphasized the importance of protecting the state’s longstanding values of peace, unity and communal harmony.
The monarch’s appeal comes as political parties intensify their campaigns ahead of the election, which will see Governor Ademola Adeleke seeking re-election against several challengers, including candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The August 15 poll has already attracted heightened attention, with electoral stakeholders and security authorities taking steps to prevent violence and ensure a credible process. The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has also engaged political and other stakeholders in the state amid concerns over political tensions ahead of the election.
In recent weeks, political parties and candidates have also been urged to conduct issue-based campaigns, reject hate speech and avoid actions capable of threatening public peace.
The Ooni’s intervention further underscores the role of traditional institutions in promoting stability and peaceful political participation, particularly during Nigeria’s competitive electoral seasons.
As Osun prepares for the governorship election, stakeholders are expected to respect the rule of law, allow voters to exercise their democratic rights freely and ensure that political competition does not undermine the peace and unity of the state.