Clashes in Osun State injure many, parties blame each other

A series of violent clashes in Osun State on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, left multiple people injured and prompted accusations of political violence from Governor Ademola Adeleke and the opposition All Progressives Congress (APC) as tensions rise ahead of the state's August 15 governorship election.

Governor Adeleke, in a statement, condemned what he described as coordinated attacks by pro-APC political thugs in Ile-Ife, Ede, Osogbo, and other communities. He said he visited victims receiving treatment at hospitals in Osogbo and Ede and called on federal security authorities, including President Bola Tinubu and the Inspector-General of Police, to intervene. The governor directed state security agencies to investigate the incidents and prosecute those responsible.

According to local reports, the violence began in Ile-Ife during a morning walk organized by the APC to rally support for its governorship candidate, Bola Oyebamiji. Eyewitnesses said the event turned violent in the Sabo area after hoodlums tore campaign posters, leading to clashes involving individuals linked to the APC and the Accord party. Dangerous weapons and gunshots were reportedly used, causing panic and injuries....