A coalition of Nigerian students and civil society organisations has called on the United States, United Kingdom and other members of the international community to immediately urge the Federal Government to ensure a credible and transparent election in Osun State on August 15, 2026.
The coalition made the call on Friday through Olayinka Dada and Igwe Ude-Umanta, who spoke on its behalf at the United States Embassy in Abuja.
The group also submitted separate petitions to the United States Embassy, the British High Commission, the European Union Delegation and the United Nations offices in Abuja, demanding a free, fair and transparent election.
The coalition expressed concern over alleged political violence, intimidation, misuse of public institutions and other developments surrounding the election.
It specifically raised concern over the recent freezing of bank accounts belonging to the Osun State Government by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, before President Bola Tinubu intervened.
“The timing of such actions shortly before the governorship election smacks of political interference, intimidation and bullying, regardless of the stated reasons behind the action.
“Instead of targeting opposition elements, security agencies should investigate all allegations of politically motivated violence and ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted, irrespective of political affiliation or connections”, the coalition stated.
“We specifically call on the United States authorities to encourage the Federal Government to ensure political neutrality and guarantee equal opportunities for all contestants in the Osun governorship election.
“The United States and other members of the international community must closely monitor developments before, during, and after the Osun governorship election and ensure that appropriate sanctions are imposed on anyone found to have violated Nigeria’s electoral integrity,” the statement added.
Osun Guber: US, UK, others should immediately task FG on credible election – Coalition