Preparations for the Osun State governorship election were marred by widespread allegations of vote-buying, voter inducement, and political violence involving major political parties, including the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Accord Party.

Widespread Vote-Buying and Inducement

Ahead of the election, the APC and the Accord Party were accused of engaging in extensive financial inducements across several local government areas (LGAs) in Osun State. Reports indicated that cash distribution and the collection of voter details began several days prior to the election.

Financial payouts to eligible voters varied by region and party:

• APC Distributions: The APC reportedly offered cash sums ranging from 15,000 to 20,000 Naira per voter across various polling units, alongside the distribution of food items such as rice and salt. In some areas, party representatives defended the payments as logistical support for transportation or feeding.

• Accord Party Distributions: The Accord Party disbursed sums ranging from 10,000 to 20,000 Naira per voter. In certain districts, cash distributions were accompanied by oaths of allegiance administered to beneficiaries to secure their votes.

Both parties targeted numerous municipalities, including Ilesa, Osogbo, Iwo, Aiyedire, Ila, Ile-Ife, Ikire, and Ede. Civil society organisations and residents criticized these practices as the weaponisation of poverty, noting that the monetization of the electoral process undermines democratic integrity.

Security Concerns and Incidents of Violence

The political atmosphere was significantly heightened by outbreaks of violence and security breaches across the state. Reports documented multiple fatalities linked to pre-election clashes, cult-related violence, and political rivalry in towns such as Ilesa, Esa-Oke, and surrounding communities.

In response to the escalating tension, security agencies deployed additional personnel, including soldiers with Armoured Personnel Carriers, to critical flashpoints and boundary corridors across Osun State. The Nigeria Police Force warned politicians and citizens against electoral offences, explicitly stating that vote-buying would lead to immediate arrest and prosecution.

Accusations and Counter-Accusations

Political camps engaged in mutual recriminations regarding planned disruptions and security threats:

• APC Claims: The APC campaign council alleged that the incumbent administration had mobilized political thugs into the Government House in Osogbo to destabilize specific wards and local government areas during the polls.

• Accord Party Claims: Conversely, the Accord Party reported widespread attacks on its members, supporters, and campaign infrastructure, citing multiple injuries, vandalism of property, and targeted assaults across various local government areas.

Credibility Concerns

Monitoring groups, including YIAGA Africa, expressed deep concern over the credibility of the election. Observers warned that the combination of pervasive vote-buying, political intimidation, and violent clashes severely threatened the transparency, integrity, and overall legitimacy of the electoral outcome.