Osun Guber: Labour Party urges calm amid rising political violence

The Osun State chapter of the Labour Party has called for calm after recent incidents of political violence, including reports of gunfire and killings in parts of the state.

The party’s state chairman, Mustapha Adebayo Muhydeen, issued the appeal on Thursday, voicing concern over what he described as a disturbing rise in politically motivated violence.

Muhydeen said the developments were worrisome and urged political stakeholders and their supporters to embrace peace as political activities continue ahead of future elections in the state.

He recalled that during his inauguration as chairman of the Labour Party in Osun on 25 April 2026, he had stressed the importance of peaceful coexistence among residents before, during, and after the 15 August governorship election.

According to him, “the recent incidents threaten the stability and democratic progress of the state and should not be allowed to continue.”

“The Labour Party in Osun State is deeply concerned about the recent spate of violence, including gunshots and reported loss of lives in some communities. We call on all political actors and their supporters to exercise restraint and allow peace to prevail.”

The party chairman urged security agencies to intensify efforts to maintain law and order across the state and ensure that those responsible for acts of violence are identified and prosecuted.

He maintained that political competition should not degenerate into violence, adding that democracy can only flourish in an atmosphere of peace, tolerance, and mutual respect.

Muhydeen stated, “No political ambition is worth the blood of any citizen. We urge all stakeholders to put the interest of Osun State above partisan differences and ensure that peace is not compromised.”

He also expressed sympathy for families affected by the recent violence and called for justice and support for victims of the unrest.

The Labour Party chairman advised youths across the state not to allow themselves to be used by politicians as agents of violence, warning that such actions could have lasting consequences for their future.

Muhydeen reaffirmed the party’s commitment to peaceful political engagement and urged residents to remain calm while relevant authorities address the situation.

He stressed that dialogue and lawful engagement remain the appropriate means of resolving political differences in a democratic society.