Adeleke Demands Sanctions Against Opposition Figures
Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has formally requested that the British government impose visa bans and economic sanctions on Gboyega Oyetola, the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, along with Senator Francis Fadahunsi, Bola Oyebamiji, and Wole Oke. The governor accused these opposition politicians of fueling political violence in the lead-up to the August 15, 2026, governorship election.
Adeleke made the demand on Monday, July 13, 2026, while receiving a British government delegation in Osogbo. The delegation was led by Wale Adebajo, Senior Political Adviser at the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos, who serves as a key diplomatic liaison managing political relations and leading peacebuilding initiatives. The visit was part of the British government's pre-election peacebuilding efforts in collaboration with international partners, as stated on the official Osun state government website.
Violence Escalates as Election Nears
The governor's call came after a fresh killing in Ijebu-Jesa, bringing the total number of Accord party members killed by suspected APC thugs to five since campaigns began. Additionally, 15 other members have been critically injured. With only 32 days until the election, violence has overshadowed the campaigns of all 14 candidates contesting for the state's top office.
According to Legit.ng's findings, Osun governorship elections have been marred by violence since 2007, with the 2026 cycle linked to tensions from the 2022 election, during which more than 30 people were killed across local government areas. Adeleke emphasized that publicly available statements and conduct by senior APC figures justified international consequences, accusing them of openly inciting violence through allies.
Governor Urges Deterrent Measures
Speaking to the British team, Adeleke stated: "I believe we must have a deterrent against those promoting political violence. We seek visa ban against politicians sponsoring killings and violent attacks. We advocate for similar sanctions against security chiefs aiding and abetting such anti-democratic activities."
The governor reiterated his zero-tolerance stance on violence and directed security agencies to arrest suspects regardless of political affiliation, including members of his own camp. He said: "I have zero tolerance for violence. I have told the inspector general of police that if my son is involved, he should be arrested. I told the world we harbour no thugs anywhere and the police can and should arrest any suspect. There must be strict law enforcement."
British Delegation Pledges Support
Wale Adebajo, leading the British delegation, assured Governor Adeleke that the team would engage all relevant stakeholders to create a peaceful atmosphere for the August 15 polls. He reaffirmed the British government's commitment to transparent and free elections in Nigeria.
The meeting underscores international concern over political violence in Osun State, as the international community seeks to ensure a credible electoral process.
