Ooni of Ife warns rising tension ahead of Osun election

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has issued a stark warning that political tension in Osun State is becoming unbearable ahead of the August 15 governorship election. The revered traditional ruler made the remarks on Tuesday, July 28, while receiving a delegation from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) led by its Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.

Oba Ogunwusi, who also serves as Co-Chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, condemned the rising political anxiety and called on all stakeholders to embrace peace. He stressed that the traditional institution remains permanently committed to the state's stability, unlike politicians whose alliances may shift. The monarch urged INEC to discharge its constitutional duties with absolute neutrality, transparency, and professionalism, stating that the electoral umpire holds the key to reducing the current tension. He appealed to political parties, candidates, and their supporters to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and prevent political competition from degenerating into hostility or violence.

The INEC delegation's visit to the Ooni's palace in Ile-Ife was part of the commission's advocacy and...