The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has called on political parties and candidates participating in Saturday’s Osun State governorship election to honour the peace accord signed ahead of the poll.
The appeal comes as political tension rises across the state in the final hours before voters head to the polls.
INEC urged political actors to respect their commitments to peaceful conduct and avoid actions or statements capable of undermining the credibility of the election.
The call is coming against the backdrop of concerns over political violence, inflammatory rhetoric and allegations exchanged by rival political camps ahead of the election.
Political parties and candidates in Osun had previously signed a peace accord committing themselves to a peaceful, free and credible election.
Yiaga Africa has also raised concerns about electoral preparedness and urged political parties and candidates to honour the Peace Accord, refrain from vote-buying and avoid inflammatory rhetoric.
With the election scheduled for August 15, attention is now shifting to the conduct of political actors, security agencies, election officials and voters as the state prepares for the crucial poll.
INEC’s latest appeal underscores the importance of ensuring that political competition does not translate into violence or intimidation.