Rising political tension ahead of the August 15 Osun State governorship election has claimed several lives across different parts of the state, raising concerns among stakeholders over the security situation.

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Among the victims was Ajayi Rogba, a member of the Accord Party, who was killed in Esa-Oke, Obokun Local Government Area, on June 23. Four days later, on June 27, an APC member, Taofeeq Mustapha, was reportedly shot dead in another election-related incident.

The violence continued on July 6, when 19-year-old Timilehin Oni was killed in Ijebu-Jesa. On July 15, two persons identified as Lateef Adelodun, popularly known as Lexy, and Waheed Adigun lost their lives during an attack in Egbatedo, Osogbo.

Another victim, simply identified as Ibrahim, was killed in the Atelewo area of Osogbo on July 26, further heightening fears over the deteriorating security situation ahead of the governorship poll.

Other reported fatalities linked to the wave of political violence include Aderombi Abass, Ganiyu Gele, Wole Vulcaniser, Rafiu Quadri Abiodun and Elijah Baba Ewe, whose deaths have also been associated with politically related clashes in different parts of the state.

Meanwhile, the Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has raised concerns over the increasing violence, revealing that 56 election-related violent incidents resulting in 14 fatalities were recorded across Osun State within the last 12 months.

Presenting the report during an election security summit in Osogbo on July 13, the organisation disclosed that Osogbo, the state capital, recorded the highest number of incidents, accounting for 23 of the 56 violent cases and nine of the 14 reported deaths.

KDI urged political parties, security agencies, electoral stakeholders and supporters to embrace peaceful conduct before, during and after the August 15 governorship election to prevent further loss of lives and ensure a credible democratic process.