Editorial: Osun must not vote in fear

The Osun governorship election is just around the corner, but instead of talking about ideas and development, many people are talking about killings, attacks and political thuggery. This is sad and dangerous.

Reports from different parts of the state show that lives have already been lost. Party supporters have been attacked. Campaign materials have been destroyed. Many people now fear that things may get worse if urgent action is not taken. This is not what democracy should look like.

Sadly, this is not the first time politics has brought violence to Osun. The state has witnessed political clashes in the past, and many had hoped those dark days were over. It is painful that the same ugly pattern is returning. Elections should bring hope, not fear. They should unite people, not divide families and communities.

Politicians must remember that power is temporary, but the pain of losing a loved one can last forever. No political office is worth the blood of any citizen. Those who sponsor thugs should know that they are destroying the future of the young people they use for violence.

Young men should also refuse to be used as weapons. The money given to them today will not care for them if they are injured, arrested or killed. The politicians who send them into trouble will move on, but their families will be left to suffer.

Security agencies have a big duty at this time. They must act quickly against anyone who breaks the law. They must not favour any political party. Criminals should be arrested and prosecuted, no matter who they are connected to. The recent peace meetings are welcome, but peace meetings alone are not enough. The law must speak louder than violence.

INEC must also do its part by ensuring a free, fair and transparent election. The electoral body has already identified many flashpoints in the state. Those areas should receive special attention so that voters can come out without fear.

Traditional rulers, religious leaders and community leaders should continue to speak against violence. Parents should warn their children not to become tools in the hands of desperate politicians.

The people of Osun deserve an election where votes count, not bullets. The winner should emerge through the ballot box, not through intimidation or bloodshed.

History will not remember those who caused violence. It will remember those who protected peace. This is the time for every stakeholder to choose peace over politics. Osun deserves nothing less.