Osun 2026 Governorship Debate Cancelled Over Security Concerns And Candidates’ Reluctance

The much-anticipated Osun 2026 Governorship Debate scheduled for today, Saturday, the 1st of August, in Osogbo has been cancelled.

The organisers say the decision was unanimously reached following unfavourable security reports and the reluctance of some of the leading governorship candidates to participate under the prevailing circumstances.

The debate, jointly organised by Uniq FM, Rave FM, Diamond FM, and Fresh FM, was expected to feature the governorship candidates of the All Progressives Congress (APC), African Democratic Congress (ADC), Accord Party, and the African Action Congress (AAC).

According to the organisers, the cancellation became necessary in the interest of public safety and to prevent any situation that could endanger participants, invited guests, media personnel, and members of the public.

The development comes amid reports of unrest in different parts of Osun State, raising concerns over the security challenges that can affect the guests.

The organisers have expressed appreciation to all stakeholders and members of the public for their understanding, assuring that any future arrangements regarding the debate will be communicated through the appropriate channels.

The cancellation is the latest indicator of heightened political tensions in Osun State ahead of the August 15 governorship election.

Political campaigns have been marred by accusations of violence, intimidation, and police bias.

Governor Ademola Adeleke, who is seeking re-election on the Accord Party platform, recently alleged that the state is facing “a progression towards genocide,” claiming that eight members of his party have been killed and more than 20 others injured in attacks in recent months.

He also alleged that over 60 Accord Party members are being held in police custody without charges.

In response to security concerns, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has identified flashpoints across the state and ordered tight security for the poll.

INEC Chairman, Prof Joash Amupitan, listed hotspot local government areas including Atakumosa East and West, Ede North and South, and Osogbo, warning that security forces have been issued strict operational directives to neutralise thuggery and any attempt at ballot disruption.

The police have also been under scrutiny, with the Accord Party petitioning President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police over what it described as a pattern of intimidation and politically motivated arrests targeting its members.

The Commissioner of Police in the state has since been redeployed and replaced by a new officer assigned specifically for the election.