By Innocent Anaba
A former Chairperson of the Transition Monitoring Group, TMG, and Associate Professor of Law, Dr. Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi, has expressed concern over the rising political tension ahead of the August 15, governorship election in Osun State, warning that the situation could undermine the credibility of the poll and public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.
In a statement on Thursday, the human rights lawyer called on political parties, candidates, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, security agencies and other stakeholders to exercise restraint and ensure that the election is conducted in a peaceful, transparent and credible manner.
Drawing from her experience in election observation and democratic governance, Akiyode-Afolabi said the developments in Osun State reflected early warning signs commonly associated with electoral violence.
“As an election observer, I understand the warning signs that often precede electoral violence. The developments unfolding in Osun demand urgent and collective action to prevent further escalation,” she said.
